


'O^ ■ * 



O N 






V. 









^'h.. 






.0^ c " ■■ ■' -? 



<^ ^ 









^ .: 



<^ 






V * ^ 



"^Z, *8>A-^ ^0 , 



^^ -^.^ 



^. r,^ '^ 



\ 



^: . ^ . 



'^ A 



■x^ 









18/, ' ^ 






*^ 









^oo^ 



r-C'^N-, 



^'i-: " 



4- ^^^ 









><<:^ 



.A 



::-© 












A^ 



'* r^ ^"c- 



-/ 



v^l 









^^^-S-, 



S* 






^^ ;. -^^ ,\ ■ 



i"> 









.-N 



0^ 






^ V 



% ^^' 

X^^' ^^- 









•^> 



%. 



'.'^c 






z 



■-'/ C- 



S^% 



^ , 



0' 



<? 
^ 



/ s ^ ^^\ ^^ -^ , .w -^ ,L^ 






-l'^- 



■''^ 



^, V" 



.^^ 



.\ 



•^', '- . . ■ o ' -y 












^. 















<J> ^''cJ 






t^>'.,v 






-^ <^. ,^^^' ^-s 



r 



REFACE. 



This work is written simply to give a faithful 
I account of tlie Battles, Marches, and Camj^ Life of 
the Hawkins Zouaves. We feel that it is clue to 
the honored dead and the surviving members of the 
Regiment, that their names and the valuable ser- 
vice they have given to their Country be retained 
in the records of the Great Struggle. 

We would acknowledge our indebtedness to sev- 
eral members of the Regiment for assistance ren- 
dered in connection with the undertaking. 



LONTENTS. 



PART I. 

PAGE 

From Castle Garden to Riker''s Island, . . , . 13 

Organization — First Principles — Sv\-orn in Service. 

PART II. 
From Riker's Island to Newports News, . . . .18 

In Barracks — Spoiling for Fight — Speech — Jumping Fences — 
Inspection by General Dix — Leaving the Island — Present- 
ation and Oration — Off for the Seat of War. 

PART III. 
Newports News to Hatter as, . . . . . . .33 

First Camp — First March — First Battle — Retreat — Skirmish 
'of Company F — Reconnoissance — Colonel Phelps — Company 
A go out — Capture — Disaffection and Satisfaction — Compa- 
nies G, H, and C off for Hatteras. 

PART lY. 

Hatteras to Roanoke, 54 

Colonel Hawkins commands landed Forces at Hatteras — 
A Document — A Warning, repeated — Arrival of Companies 
A, D, E, F, and I — Chicomocomico — Capture of the " Fanny," 
and of the " Peacock," who shows false Colors — Battle and 
Retreat — The Third Georgia Regiment — B and K leaving the 
General — The "Bernard Afifair" — Violent Storm — Narrow 
Escape — Burnside Expedition — Crossing the "Swash" — De- 
parture in the Fleet. 



Vlll CONTENTS. 

PART Y. 

ROAXOKE TO WiNTON, Yl 

Landing — Mud and Rain at Ashby's — The Fight Opens — 
Going into Battle — First Charge of the War— sYictory — Re- 
port of Colonel Hawkins — Moving — No Crackers — Go on the 
Boats — B and H at Nag's Head — Up the Albemarle-*-Blood- 
less Battle — Burning of Winton — Report of Colonel Hawkins. 

PART YI. 

Roanoke to Camden, 91 

Making Things Comfortable — Colonel Hawkins in Command 
of Brigade — New Colors — H and I make a Capture — Perilous 
Undertaking — Up the Pasquotank — Midnight March — Battle 
of Camden — Another Tramp — Back to Roanoke — Exhaustion. 

PART YII. 

Roanoke to Norfolk and Newports News, . . . .109 

Homelike Indulgencies — Minstrel Club — Company C strike 
the Enemy — Sword presented to Colonel Hawkins — Company 
K go to Norfolk, via Canal — Company F go to Plymouth — 
Fourth of July — To the Neuse River, and back — Arrival at 
Norfolk — At Newports News again. 

PART YHI. 

Newports News to Fredericksburgh and "Washington, . .119 
Up the Potomac — At Acquia Creek — ^At Fredericksburgh — 
Company K surprise the Enemy — Midnight Slippery March — 
Up the Potomac again — Arrival at Washington. 

PART IX. 

Washington to Frederick, .124 

Colonel Hawkins leaves for New-York — March — Brookville — 
Laytonsville — Ridgeville — Cheering for Company F — Reach 
the Monocacy — Frederick. 

PART X. 

Frederick to Antietam, 128 

Wearisome Chase — Zouave Firemen — Marching again — 



CONTENTS. ix 

Battle of South-Mountain — Hungry Zouaves — Advance upon 
the Rebels — Feeling in the Dark for the Enemy — Approaching 
Battle. 

PART XI. 
Antietam to Pleasant Valley, 189 

Battle of Antietam — Terrible Charge — Horrible Havoc — 
March. 

PART xir. 

Pleasant Valley to Falmouth, 158 

Rich Valley with poor Provender — Crossing the Potomac — 
Marching several Weeks — Arrival before Fredericksburgh. 

PART XIII. 
Falmouth to Suffolk, 16G 

Crossing the Rappahannock — Battle of Fredericksburgh — 
Retreat — Company G returns — Company F returns from Ply- 
mouth — At Newports News again — Ball-playing — Up the Eliza- 
beth — Norfolk — Arrival at Suffolk. 

PART XIV. 

TUAGEDY AND ObSEQUIES, 175 

Murder of Lieutenant-Colonel Kimball — Confession of Gen- 
eral Corcoran — Escort to New-York — Grand Procession and 
Burial. 

PART XV. 
Suffolk to New-York, 180 

Siege of Suffolk — "Post of Honor" — A Change in the 
Manner of Battle — General Dix's Letter — Colonel Hawkins's 
Reply — Complimentary Order of General Getty — Arrival at 
New- York — Parade in the Rain — " Home Again." 

PART XVL 

Mustered Out, • . . , . 190 

Funeral of Colonel Ringold — Mustered Out. 

PART XVIL 
Company F at Plymouth, 194 

Rainbow Bluffs — Up the Chowan — Native Militia — Battle of 



CONTENTS. 

Plymouth — Bravery of Sergeant Green — March to Tarboro 
and Back — Sail for Washington — Rejoin the Regiment. 



PART XVIII. 
Tablet op Killed, Wounded, and Deceased, 



. 198 



APPENDIX— Notes, 211 



TO THE MEMBERS OF THE REGIMENT. 



*' I believe the fellowship begotten of army association 
scarcely has its counterpart in any other of the relations of 
life. It is stronger than a three-fold cord that can not be 
broken. Your comrade in battle, your habitual file-leader, 
your next-hand man in the ranks, and, most of all, your mess- 
mate and blanket-fellow, is your friend for life. The feelings 
you cherish for him differ, somehow, from those you have 
toward any one else. Partnership in danger, privation, and 
toil, communion in sorrows, sufferings, and triumphs, have 
inseparably knit your hearts together. Diversely as your 
paths may now be leading, you all love to go back to the 
time when they were one, and your lives had all things in 
common." — Beadle's Monthly. 



The Hawkiks Zouaves. 



Paps^ First : 
^aatle ^atj^en to Biheifs Island. 

WHEN Abraham Lincoln issued liis proclamation 
calling for troops to save tlie country, in all 
the length and breadth of the loyal Korth patriots 
of future renown arose from apparent obscurity. 
So simultaneously did they go forth with that gen- 
erous enthusiasm so inherent in the national cha- 
racter, that it seemed as though they issued in a 
resurrection of those wdio, in the Revolution, laid 
down their lives that the same Providence they then 
obeyed might lift them up again. 

The very first to respond to the sudden call was the 
Colonel who commanded that small but faithful band 
of heroes whose name occupies these pages. Upon 
the same day that .the proclamation was received, he 
went to Albany, and offered the services of a com- 
pany of iSTew-Yorlv Zouaves,* which was accepted by 
the Governor, and permission granted for the raising 
of a regiment of Zouaves. 

* Note A in Appendix. 



14 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Upon his return tlie next day, Colonel Hawkins had 
but to unfurl the flag, and a thousand patriots rallied 
around him, willing to brighten each stripe of the 
banner with the crimson of their own blood. 

The headquarters of the I^ew-York Zouaves was 
selected as a rendezvous, and men began rapidly to 
enlist under the Zouave banner, so that in a short 
time the inadequacy of the quarters was apparent, 
and Colonel Hawkins, applying for more suitable ac- 
commodations, obtained Castle Garden. The regi- 
ment was marched down Broadway one night amidst 
the cheers of multitudes, and took possession of the 
ancient fortification. It w^as the first capture made 
by the regiment, and there were surrendered to each 
man as spoil, a cup, plate, knife, fork, and spoon. 
One man began playing juggler tricks with these sol- 
dierly implements, when his finger came in contact 
with the edge of the knife ; he sustained the merit of 
being the first man wounded in the regiment. They 
found their new quarters sufficiently spacious, if that 
was all that w^as desired, but the quality of the enter- 
tainment throughout was looked upon in a disap- 
pointed manner by those who had blown the bubble 
of expectation too large. Ensuing experience, how- 
ever, created visions that transformed the depot into 
something like a palace. 

In a few days an election for line-ofiicers took 
place; shortly afterward the non-commissioned olfi- 
cers were appointed. An examination by the sur- 
geons resulted in the rejection of some few who had 
consulted their desire rather than their ability to bear 
arms. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 15 

On the 23d of April, six companies were sworn into 
the State service ; on the 27th, the remaining four 
took the same oath of fealty. 

On Sunday, May 2d, for the first time since the 
days of the Revolution, religious services were held 
within the walls of the old castle. The Eev. T. "W". 
Conway (afterward Superintendent of Freedmen in 
Louisiana) conducted the worship. In the morning, 
the troops were drawn up in mass, confronting the 
desk occupied by the chaplain, and for forty minutes 
they listened with profound interest to the able and 
aifecting discourse of the worthy man. 

While the drilling without muskets drew immense 
crowds to witness the evolutions, it became a ques- 
tion with Colonel Hawkins as to whether he could 
not obtain quarters more convenient for the men ; 
for some dissatisfaction already existed, not among 
the members of the regiment, but with the Commis- 
sioners of Emigration. An effort to fulfill this desire 
only resulted in worse accommodation ; for, upon 
marching the regiment to the premises that had been 
granted for the purpose in La Fayette Place, the men 
were dismissed for a few hours. Assembled again in 
the afternoon, they were conducted in order to Centre 
Market armories, where no adequate provision had 
been made. But Colonel Hawkins did not at once 
renounce all hope of yet securing for his command 
proper quarters for them to remain in. He applied 
to Captain Dodge, of Bedloe's Island, requesting him 
to allow that rendezvous to be occuj^ied by the regi- 
ment ; but owing to the large force of United States 
troops stationed there, it could not be accommodated. 



10 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

Application to the commandant of Fort Hamilton 
only rcsnltod in a similar manner. Bnt shortly after- 
ward wc find the Colonel, like an anxions g-uardian, 
leading his men hack to Cattle Garden, with the re- 
tleetion that there were less inconveniences inside 
than ontside of it. 

On the 4th day of May, 1S(>1, the whole regiment 
was sworn into the United States service by Captain 
Havman, of the United States Armv. 

ISTew and extensive barracks had been in the course 
of erection for some time on Eiker's Island, and it 
was expected the "Xinth" would soon occupy them. 
Preparation to leave the depot was not undertaken, 
however, until the loth day of May. Their depart- 
ure had been announced in the daily papers, and an 
immense concourse of citizens gathered around the 
Battery to witness the occasion of their embarkation ; 
but the spectatoi*s were in a measure disappointed 
when thev learned that the reiriment had formed in- 
side the Castle, and were to embark from the pier of 
the Garden. The order to be ready had been desig- 
nated at nine o'clock, which order was strictly ad- 
hered to, and all its detail observed. The luggage 
having been put on the steamer Young America and 
the bai-ge Irene, the men were marched aboard. The 
steamer cut loose her hawser, and hauling the barge 
out in the stream, began to move for the East River. 
The drum-corps of the *' Xinth " gave a parting salute, 
and the most deafening cheei*s went up from the vast 
multitude outside the Battery. The members of the 
Second Xew-York were drawn up in line at the 
water's edo:e, and sjave the Zouaves an enthusiastic 



THEIR BATTLES AXD 1L1RCHE3. 17 

clieering ; tlieir drnm-corp? ako beating a salute to 
tlieir departure. Finally, Captain Mott's batterv. of 
two twelve-pound howitzers, opened their throats and 
.belched forth a deafening farewell of eleven rounds. 
The different scenes on the shore were indeed animat- 
ing, all the space between the bell-ringing and gun- 
firing being filled with the waving of handkerchiefs 
by the fair sex, who were there in large numbers ; the 
Zouaves, in the mean time, making themselves hoarse 
in their attempts to return all the compliments. This 
condition of enthusiasm did not cease until they were 
far up the East River, out of sight. Every vessel 
that passed the regiment gave s<'jme token of ap- 
plause, either by the crew cheering, or the dipping of 
colors, blowing of whistle, or ringing of belL 'Wben 
above Blackwell's Island, the United States steamer 
Vixen, coming do\vn the river, was greeted appro- 
priately by the troops, and the notice was ceremo- 
niously returned by the gallant tars, the officers lifting 
their caps in true navy style. 

About twelve o'clock m.. the troops arrived at their 
destination on the island, and the disembarkation was 
rapidly effected in a manner that gave evidence that 
they could already handle their luggage with alacrity ; 
wliich is easily accounted for from the fact that the 
men were all active, intellicrent, and vouno:. few of 
tliem bein^ more than twentv-five vears of asre. 



18 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



Part Second : 

THE quarters in the neatly constructed barracks 
were such as the most fastidious could not com- 
plain of, and the "IS'inth" cheerfully took posses- 
sion of them ; and the commodious arrangements 
that had been effected in all the departments were 
greeted with approbation. 

The plan of the buildings was in the form ol a 
parallelogram, the avenue within answering as streets 
for the various companies, for the use of roll-call, 
company inspection, etc. The ordnance department 
and the hospital closed one end of the square, the 
other being left open for the free exit and ingress of 
the troops to and from the parade and drill -ground. 
The guard-room, mess-room, and officers' quarters 
were opposite the quarters of the men. The field 
and staff were outside the square. -The entire ar- 
rangements were planned and laid out by Colonel 
Hawkins, and great credit is due to the skillful man- 
agement by which they were accomplished. 

The culii^ary department was superintended by Mr. 
W. B. Davis, who was one of the contractors for sup- 
plying the regiment with rations. 

A most rigid observance of a soldier's duties was 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 19 

now enforced ; and althongli they were fonnd to bo 
rather burdensome at first, yet custom gradually mod- 
ified their severity, and the result of a few weeks' 
discipline was truly surprising. 

One evening, when Major Kimball happened to be 
in I^ew-York, the very interesting ceremony of pre- 
senting him with a sword took place. It was given 
by the news-agents of the city, with whom Major 
Kimball had been associated a great many years. 
His faithfulness to his friends, and his free exhibition 
of patriotism, drQ,w from them this token of their 
esteem. When the sword was handed to him, he 
scrutinized it in a manner that fully attested his 
gratefulness for the appropriate gift. He replied in a 
soldier-like speech. 

The members of the regiment, now having some 
idea of the discipline required of the soldier, and the 
manner of its performance, began to exhibit some 
anxiety to be placed in a situation where the labor 
they had undergone to acquire it might not be lost, 
but would be serviceable to the cause thev left their 
homes to aid. Although the Colonel laboriously ex- 
erted himself to secure for them an early transport- 
ation to the seat of war, yet that fact did not console 
them, and they v/ere still clamorous to be off. The 
Fifth New- York Yolunteers, from Fort Schuyler, 
passed the island, on their way to Fortress Monroe, 
and the six-pounder of Camp Hawkins was wheeled 
out to give them a parting salute, in connection with 
the stentorian cheers the regiment were sending out 
for the same purpose. This incident only augmented 
the desire they had cherished to depart in the same 



20 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

direction ; and shortly after, tlie nproar became so 
great upon an occasion when Colonel Hawkins had 
just returned from the city, that he was obliged to 
resort to a speech to pacify them. The enthusiasm 
they exhibited fully betokened the earnestness of 
their appeals to be brought in contact with the malig- 
nant foes of the government. The Colonel frankly 
told them of the situation of affairs, and stated what 
they might expect, urging upon them an exercise of 
that patience necessary to a full enjoyment of the 
realization that would eventually ensue. He ex- 
pounded the difficulties attendant upon so gigantic a 
preparation for war among a people like ours, and 
besought them rather to assist in the struggle by a 
faithful reliance upon the integrity of the authorities 
to discharge their arduous and troublesome duties, 
than to hinder or annoy tliem by any untimely de- 
monstrations of dissatisfaction. He knew the delay 
was tedious, but said they would lose nothing in be- 
coming well drilled and expert in jumping fences;* 
and he would assure them that they should depart in 
a few days, so that the next fence they jumped would 
be that one intervening between them and the enemy. 
The closiiig remark was received with prolonged 
cheers, and the next moment tlie Colonel might be 
seen borne high on the shoulders of the crowd to his 
own quarters. 

A new uniform of Zouave dress had been issued to 

* They had bceu drilled in marching over the stone walls. They 
would advance to the wall in line, quickly spring over to the other side, 
and having hastily formed in line again, would march on as though no 
impediment coukl hinder them. 



their' BATTLES AXD MARCHES. 21 

tlie regiment, and passes were now granted to a cer- 
tain number of men each day, that thej might have 
the opportunity of taking a final leave of their fam- 
ilies, tlieir homes, and the social circle. 

Inoculation had been performed throughout the 
entire regiment by Surgeon Humphreys and Assist- 
ant Surgeon White, and its sanitary condition was 
most satisfactory. 

The regiment now being in an ex^^ellent condition, 
and fully armed and equipped, it became necessary to 
inspect and review.it. Accordingly General Dix, 
within whose department the Zouaves had been as- 
signed, ordered a parade for that purpose on the first 
day of June. After a severe battalion drill, the men 
were dravrn up in line of battle, and about three 
o'clock the General, accompanied by Colonel Keys, of 
the United States Army, arrived upon the ground. 
It was well understood that the occasion would be 
an interesting one, and therefore cpiite an assemblage, 
composed of the friends of the regiment, Iiad gathered 
themselves to witness it. There was a plentiful 
number of ladies present, who, in gay attire, dotted 
the parade in groups, like clusters of flowers in the 
midst of more hardy plants. The drum and bugle- 
corps were on the ground, and proved Yenisei ves 
quite a novelty to the visitors. After the dress-parade, 
the regiment was minutely inspected by General Dix, 
who could not refrain from expressing his admiration, 
as each step up and down the line called for some 
new mark of praise. He was greatly satisfied with 
tlie completeness of every thing, and so expressed 
himself to the commandant of the "Kinth." After 
2* 



22 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

the inspection the regiment passed in review, and the 
General was greatly astonished at the degree of per- 
fection they had attained in marching in so brief a 
time. But it is not so surprising if we consider that 
the Zouaves were drilled seven hours each day. After 
they were dismissed, he said he liked the appearance 
of the men both oif and on drill, whether in full 
dress or in latigue about their work. Their faces 
were a study ; and he was really prond that such a 
noble set of men had been assigned to his command. 
As a General, he would not be unmindful of the treat- 
ment they merited. He felt certain they would some 
day distinguish themselves. 

The following order was issued by Colonel Hawkins, 
in anticipation of leaving for the seat of war : 

Headquarters Ninth N. Y. Y., 
Camp Hawkins, June 1, 1801. 
The friends of the Xinth Xew-York Yolunteers will be per- 
mitted to visit Piiker's Island on Sunday. Steamer Thomas 
Hunt leaves Peck Slip at 1 oVlock p.m. No other boat will be 
allowed to land passengers. 

By order Rush C. Hawkins, 

Colonel Commanding, 

The Ggionel also ordered a long-roll to be beaten 
in the small hours of Sunday, in order to test the 
ability of the regiment to turn out hastily under arms, 
fully equipped. It was only anotlier manner of show- 
ing the proficiency the Zouaves had attained. Four 
guns were fired by the guard, and immediately after 
the drums and fifes sounded the alarm. Almost in 
an instant every captain had his company out, guard 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAP.CHES. 23 

was posted, and every preparation made for repellino- 
the sham attack. The time occupied for all was a 
moment less than nine minutes. 

An enterprisin^: Germ.an, however, had, by some 
unaccountable means, ascertained tliat such an order 
Vv'ould be issued; and anticipating the time somewhat, 
he slung his knapsack, shouldered his musket, and 
repaired to the drummers' quarters, and beating the 
door with his musket, shouted, "Beat ter long-roll, I 
ish oil ready ! " 

On Sunday afternoon two sets of colors were pre- 
sented to Companies A, C, D, and G, by some ladies 
of Hoboken, Xew-Jersey. The presentation took 
pLace on the parade-ground in the midst of an inter- 
ested assemblage, for a great number of visitors had 
availed themselves of the opportunity presented by 
the order of Colonel Hawkins. The flags displayed 
considerable taste in their execution, and were well 
worthy the delicate hands that worked them. 

The Zouaves had added some interest to the day by 
decorating their barracks and company streets with 
patriotic devices in evergreens, and gay festoons in 
red, white, and blue. Each company had its own at- 
tractive novelty. The ladies were unsparing in their 
admiration, notwithstanding their anticipations were 
greatly disappointed that a soldier should have any 
taste whatever ; and it is supposed that many, after 
returnin<2^ home, consoled themselves with the thouo-ht 
that still a spark of humanity lingered in the breast 
of the savage. 

The mess-room was an object of particular interest. 
When strangers are thrown in society quite foreign to 



24 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

tliem, tliere is notliing of wliicli they are half so ob- 
serving as of the manners of epic pastime. The ladies 
were anxious to see how the soldiers would eat. 
When dinner-call was sounded, the alacrity with 
which the knife, fork, cup, and plate were seized was 
suggestive to the observer of the supple nature of the 
Zouaves in a moment of emergency. 

During the afternoon, Major Kimball was waited 
upon at his quarters by a few friends from the New- 
York Custom-House, who presented him with a beau- 
tiful pair of epaulettes, the gift of the weighers of 
that establishment. They were a handsome present, 
and the Major evinced his appreciation of them in 
many ways. , 

Preparations for departure from the island were 
made on Monday. The arrangements had been so 
perfected that a transfer of the regiment, with its 
entire luggage and stores, might take place imme- 
diately upon the arrival of the steamer. It was ex- 
pected at ten o'clock, and they only awaited the order 
to march aboard. But they were doomed to disap- 
pointment then, as they have been since upon many 
occasions of a similar nature. 'No transj^ortation ar- 
rived that day, and they were obliged to wait imtil 
the Wednesday following. 

After the postponement of their departure. Colonel 
Hawkins issued an order to those who had been grant- 
ed passes, but who were yet in the city. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 25 

5 Special Order ) 

I No. 12. > Camp Hawkins, Riker's Island, 

June 4, 1861. 
All absentees of the Ninth New-York Volunteers are hereby- 
ordered to report themselves on board the steamer Marion, at 
Pier No. 4 North River, on AYednesday, the 5th inst., at 12 m., 
for the purpose of sailing for Fortress Monroe. 

By order Rush C. Hawkins, 

Colonel Commanding. 

At the appointed time tlie men were marclied 
aboard tlie, steamer, wliicli started down the East 
Hiver with them. 

It was fine weather, and all the circnmstances 
seemed propitionsly nnited for the occasion. Every 
thing seemed suggestive of complete success ; and the 
accounts already given leave no room to doubt that 
the prognostications were fully verified. Their pas- 
sage down the river was marked by the occasional 
salute of a gun, and the more frequent cheers of in- 
dividuals who had congregated in noisy crowds upon 
either side, and the flaunting of gay banners, gaudy 
handkerchiefs, and various other signs of enthusiasm 
and good-will. 

When arrived at the foot of Thirtieth street, the 
Zouaves were formed in parade line, after consider- 
able delay in contending with the great mass of peo- 
ple there congregated for sufiicient ground to estab- 
lish an alignment. They were soon under headway, 
marching up Thirty -fourth street to Fifth avenue, 
down which they turned, and soon reaching the res- 
idence of Mr. A. W. Griswold, they were halted for 
the purpose of receiving a handsome flag from the 



26 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

liands of Mrs. Griswold. The regiment was carefully 
drawn \i^ in line, the centre opposite the dwelling. 
The Kev. Gardiner Spring approached Colonel Haw- 
kins, and after presenting the colors, delivered an ad- 
dress, which we give below : 

Colonel Hawkins, Officers and Soldiers of the Ninth Regi- 
ment New-York Volunteers : 

I have been requested by Mrs. Griswold, now here, to present 
to you this splendid emblem of our nationality, and I desire to do 
this with a few introductory remarks. I, who, for over fifty 3'ears, 
have been enlisted under the banner of the Prince* of Peace, find 
myself exactly in such a novel position as yourselves, who have 
enlisted in the noble cause of defending your country against 
a band of outlaws, who, defying all law of righteousness, are 
striving to overthrow this, the happiest government on earth. 
Secession dates as far back as the days when the ten tribes of 
Israel were lost, and even further, for the devil himself Vv^as a 
secessionist. I look upon this vile controversy as the most wick- 
ed ever got up by man. I give you my blessing. The blessings 
and prayers of the whole civilized world are with j^ou. I pledge 
myself that the prayers and blessings of the Brick Church shall 
not be wanting. May the God of battles be with you, and in 
the hour of danger hover over you. Accompanying this flag is 
a letter from Mrs. Griswold, which I will now read for j^ou, as 
follows : 

No. 381 Fifth Avenue, June 5, 1861. 

Colonel Hawkins, Commandant of the Ninth Regiment 

New- York Volunteers. 

Colonel : I have the honor to present to you for your gallant 
regiment of Zouaves these colors. The Union of which this 
flag is the emblem was established by our fathers. Its cost was 
the price of blood. To their children they have confided the 
trust of guarding and upholding it. What obligation can be 
more sacredly binding upon them ? For more than three fourths 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 27 

of a century this ensign has commanded the respect of every 
people, on land and sea, wherever civilization is known, even 
penetrating the dark corners of the earth, carrying light and free- 
dom with it. "While thirty millions of people under its folds 
were enjoying life, liberty, and happiness as no other people ever 
did, foul traitors have raised their fratricidal hands against it. The 
Government has called upon its loyal citizens to come to its de- 
fense. The alacrity and zeal with which 3- ou and others have 
responded to that call awaken in our hearts the liveliest emo- 
tions and gratitude. It is beyond our province to follow this 
standard to the battle-field ; but vre can and will follow with our 
prayers and blessings those who bear it, imploring Ilim who 
holds in his hands the destiny of nations to protect and pre- 
serve those who stand by their country's flag in its hour of 
peril ; and that he will speedily restore reason and loyalty to 
that rash and misguided people who have assailed it. Accept, 
for 3'ourself and officers, and your noble regiment of Zouaves 
my kind wishes. Maky Adelaide Griswold. 

Colonel Hawkins, in a voice slightly touched with 
eniotioil*, thanked Mrs. Griswold for the present. It 
was an elegant one ; and as far as he was concerned, 
he promised never to surrender the banner except 
w^th his life. For his men he liazarded little in mak- 
ing a similar promise. He intended that the Stars 
and Stripes presented him on this beautiful day 
should come out of the clouds and storms of war 
w^ithout a disreputable blemish. 

The flag was then handed to the color-bearer, and 
exhibited to the soldiers. The whole desio;n was ex- 
ecuted with considerable taste, and proved to be cpiite 
a costly affair. On the lance which surmounted the 
staff was a square plate of silver, upon which was 
neatly engraved the following inscription : 



28 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



PRESENTED 



Mrs. Alma W. Gp^swold 

TO THE 

NINTH REGIMENT NEW-YORK VOLUNTEERS, 

June 5th, 1S61, 

LexingtoiTL, .April lOtli, UTTG. 
Baltimore, -A^pril lOtli, 1S61. 

MEMORIA IN STERNA. 

After tlie conclusion of the ceremony, tlie regiment 
was marclieci down the avenue. When arrived oppo- 
site the dwelling of Mrs. William B. Moifat, they were 
faced to it, where another standard awaited them. 
Colonel Hawkins was received in a cordial manner by 
the Rev. Dr. Wiley, of Christ Church. He made the 
presentation on behalf of the fair donor, and he spoke 
in a deep, impressive manner, calculated to touch the 
heart of every man within hearing. 

In reply. Colonel Hawkins made a polislied and 
patriotic speech. He repeated his determination 
never to surrender the flag except with his life's 
blood ; and the entire regiment was again pledged to 
stand by it at any cost, and to bring it back unsullied 
by any taint of dishonor. 

The regimental banner Avas given to the color- 
guard, and all who were sufficiently near scrutinized 
it closely. It was an elegant specimen of taste and 
material, being made of double silk, and six by eight 
feet in dimensions. Upon the centre field was the in- 
scription : 

NINTH REGIMENT NEW-YORK VOLUNTEERS. 

TOUJOURS PKET, 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 29 

The presentation being over, tlie "Ninth" was 
again put into column, and now proceeded down 
Fifth avenue to Broadway, Colonel Hawkins wishing 
to do so with as much dispatch as possible, for the 
purpose of not only embarking at the time desig- 
nated, but to avoid the bad eflect of keeping the 
public assembled on the avenues of the line of march 
many hours beyond the time of their expected arrival. 
They were loudly cheered all along the route, but 
more especially when opposite the principal hotels, 
where the denser crowds had collected ; while at 
nearly every corner, from Union Square to the Bat- 
tery, they received some unmistakable demonstrations 
of the favor in which they were held. 

The bugle and drum-corps seemed to attract con- 
siderable attention : when opposite Delmonico's, the 
buglers blasted fiercely the quick marching time, and 
the shrill notes reached far and vAde down the side 
streets and alleys, and penetrating into the recesses of 
the counting-rooms, and the far extremities of the 
underground saloons, brought forth many who, at 
that moment, would not have known the Zouaves 
were coming. 

The march of the "JSTintli" down Broadway was 
one of the grandest ovations of the kind ever vrit- 
nessed in the metropolis. Notwithstanding the peo- 
ple had once been disappointed in a rain-storm, they 
rallied a«;ain and turned out in such numbers as the 
favorable aspect of the weather seemed to invite. 

We can not avoid saying, that the martial spirit 
the Zouaves exhibited, the firmness and uniformity of 
step, compactness of line, and the frequent changing 
of the manual were soldierlv in the extreme. 



30 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

The most reliable authority, and that which is best 
able to judge, has conceded, that in perfection of drill 
the reo^iment was then without a rival. 

When they had arrived at Pier IsTumber Four, wdiere 
they were to embark, such living masses of people had 
collected there, that the bayonet alone could force a 
passage through which the Zouaves might enter the 
inclosure. Upon the rear of the regiment the crowd 
pressed so closely that it was impossible to shut the 
gates for a while ; and this was only finally efiected 
by the use of such threats from Major Kimball, as, 
if executed, w^ould certainly have placed the Zouaves 
in their first bloody engagement, to say nothing of 
the considerable augmentation of the mortality report 
of the city. 

The steamship Marion, ordered for the reception 
of the regiment, lay alongside the wdiarf, and as the 
preliminaries of going aboard were not fully arranged, 
the men were allowed to rest. When the order to 
" break ranks " was given, many rushed to the gates, 
as if to embrace the crowd, of whom many thought 
they might take a leave that would be final. Gate- 
bars could not separate them; walls of intervention 
only made them mount the higher. Friendly hands 
were thrust through the gate, and words were inter- 
changed for the last time upon earth. Fingers that 
wiped avv^ay the tears, were the next moment put for- 
ward with oranges or " creature comforts." Handker- 
chiefs, moistened with the dew of anticipated bereave- 
ment, bore their burdens of parting tokens to the 
" dear ones." 

" God bless you !" said a friend to a sergeant. The 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 31^ 

latter murmured a parting, and then turned away, 
lest lie should be guilty of the unsoldierly conduct of 
taking out a 'kercliief. 

Among numerous others a young lieutenant was 
observed as particularly affected. Friends crowded 
up to get in a last w^ord, but every sweet blessing 
seemed to touch him like gall. He burst away from 
prolonged grief with the remark that he must be near 
his command. The next moment he was seen lean- 
ing against a pile with his head down, and appeared 
to be getting the dust out of his eyes. 

But the melancholy of parting only existed in brief 
moments between the various excitements that pre- 
vailed. The regiment was ordered on board, and 
each company proceeded to the quarters that had 
been set apart for its occupation. The hawsers were 
cast loose, and the Marion moved slowly out into the 
stream. When a short distance from the wharf. Colo- 
nel Hawkins was lowered in a small boat and rowed 
to the dock. His object in going ashore was to secure 
the services of another vessel ; the one appropriated 
could accommodate only half of the regiment. 

In the mean time the Marion proceeded slowly 
down into the harbor, the Zouaves on deck waving 
their handkerchiefs in reply to the numerous white 
sio:nal3 that fluttered on the docks. 

The first man who lost his life in the regiment was 
James Warren, of Company I, from Connecticut. 
He accidentally fell overboard w^iile the steamer was 
under way, and all effort to save him proved unavail- 
ing. But an hour before a friendly voice had bid 
him a cheerful '' God speed and safe return." Some 



32 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

time after, Chaplain Conway collected a considerable 
sum of money through the liberality of the regiment, 
and forwarded it, with the earnest sympathies of 
every man, to his disconsolate widow. Many a sor- 
rowful cheek was laid upon the knapsack that night. 
The George Peabody arrived alongside, and five 
companies were transferred to it. Early in the morn- 
ing of the following day, anchor was weighed, and the 
steamers started, and on the morning of the 8th ar- 
rived at Fortress Monroe. The Colonel reported to 
the Commanding General, and not long after they 
were under way again, and in about an hour landed 
at the wharf, having reached the destination they set 
out for — Newports News. They found the forces 
there, consisting chiefly of three months men, dili- 
gently employed in building the intrenchments that 
afterward so frightened the rebel General Magruder. 
The "Ninth" was marched out through the incomplete 
sally-port, and stacked arms in advance of the other 
regiments. Upon breaking ranks the first thing 
sought after was the " Old Virginia hoe-cake," wdiich 
they procured easily enough with the glittering pieces 
of silver that quite captivated the negroes. 



THEIR J5ATTLES AND MARCHES. 33 



Pai^ Third : 
l^ewpoTiia Ij^ewa to |Jattei|a$. 

AFATIGUE-PAETY brought up tlie tents, and 
camp was pitcliecl immediately in conformity 
with the prescribed regulations. When the labor was 
completed the men naturally allowed their reflections 
to take up the matter of diet. They concliided they 
were hungry, and that there was little or nothing to 
eat within their reach. The case was obscure, and they 
immediately saw the necessity of clearing it up without 
loss of time. Delay might prove fatal at supper-hour. 
At length provision arrived — about twenty pounds of 
fat pork, beside hard-tack, for each company ; twenty 
pounds for seventy men ! They never before learned 
division on so small a scale. But the pork was just 
what was needed : the digestive organs were rusty 
and required greasing : there was an overbalance of 
electricity that had accumulated during inactivity, 
and fat absorbs a great deal. But the deficiency was 
more apparent after it had disappeared than before, 
and unsatisfied parties began to cast about for- more 
abundant supplies. Not long after, successful squads 
of Zouaves might be seen coming in from all direc- 
tions, bearing with them their trophies of sheep, 
geese, ducks, and hens. 



84 THE PIAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

The Yermonters circulated the most liicleoiis re- 
ports of the danger the "Ninth" was in, by pitch- 
ing camp so near the wood. The rebels would come 
in at night and slaughter them all in their tents ; they 
were expecting an attack every minute ; numbers 
were shot on picket already. But the Zouaves slept 
soundly that night, and upon awaking in the morn- 
ing they perceived that the sun arose in its usual 
place, though there was a rebellion in the land, and 
men were shot on guard. 

On Sunday, the 9tli-of June, a most beautiful sum- 
mer's day, the regiment struck tents and removed 
camp west of the breastworks and on a line with them 
— a position that had its rear protected by a steep and 
wooded hill, at the bottom of which was a swamp 
directly on the bank of the James Hiver. At night 
there was a "long-roll," after which the Zouaves slept 
on their arms until morning. 

The next day was extremely hot and sultry, and 
one most memorable in the annals of the rebellion ; 
for, aside from the fact that upon it was fought the 
first battle after the opening of the war, it was one of 
most disastrous defeat to the Union arms. JSTot that 
the Federals lost a great deal, but that the rebels 
gained so much. 

Colonel Hawkins received orders to take a detach- 
ment of his regiment and proceed to Little Bethel, 
to render what support was possible to the forces that 
had already been dispatched to that place for the pur- 
pose of dislodging the enemy and destroying his for- 
tifications. He received instructions to make his way 
to the scene of conflict as soon as possible, and i-eport 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 85 

to General Pierce, the officer in command ; and also 
to convej to tlie battle-field ambulances and medical 
stores. 

In accordance with the orders, Companies A, B, 
and G were hastily provided with rations and ammn- 
nition, and, commanded by Colonel Hawkins in per- 
son, started out on the road toward Bethel. 

The march there was a quiet one, with fevv^ excep- 
tions. While halting at a farm-house beside the road 
to rest a moment and fill canteens vrith cool water, a 
member of tlie regiment, liaving lost the cap from his 
piece, supposed the powder had all eked out, and 
v/ished to ascertain if it required reloading. He put 
a fresh cap on and snapped it, and to his astonisli- 
ment the musket discharged vvitli a ringing report. 
The man knew his error in a moment, and attempted 
to excuse himself to the Colonel, who, of course, gave 
him a deservedly severe reprimand : " Is it possible a 
sergeant did that? You scarcely know enough to 
last you over Sunday." It certainly was a gross error 
in the face of the enemy when a tolerable caution 
was enforced. 

The regiment fell into line again, and awaited 
orders. The roads were very dry and parched, and 
clouds of dust rose from them and hung upon the 
air ; and the sun pouring down his rays of excessive 
heat, imparted a feverish throb to the pulse. The 
Zouaves were hurried forward with unusual haste, for 
their errand was an important one, and the severity 
of the march tested well their qualifications for that 
line of duty. 

Some time before reaching the battle-field they re- 



36 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

ceivecl tlie intelligence tliat the Fonrtli Massaclmsetts, 
First Vermont, and tlie First, Third, Fourth, Fifth, 
and Seventh IlTew-York Volunteers had already en- 
gaged the rebels, and were unable to dislodge them 
from their strong position with the force they had. 
The sad misfortunes attending the expedition in re- 
gard to the two countersigns, the matter of the Union 
troops firing into each other, etc., are well understood. 
When arriving within a mile or so of the scene of 
action, the '']^intli"met the First regiment return- 
ing, some of the men saying there was little use of 
going further, as the enemy was in a formidable place 
that could not be taken without plenty of artillery, 
and they had only four pieces, with three rounds left- 
to each. It was now ascertained that the Federal 
forces were retreating from Bethel. Other troops 
passed by; but still the "Mntli" continued onward, 
and soon came up to the Fifth New- York, just before 
the latter turned off on the Hampden road. Their 
meeting was a touching scene, and on that day filled 
many hearts with deep emotion. Not only did some 
individuals who had known each other in the city, 
ofier greeting and the exchange of experience that 
either had already met with, but all upon that occa- 
sion, wli^re their sympathies were so united, seemed to 
stand in close acquaintance with each other. Some 
of the Fifth appeared still rife with the enthusiasm 
with which they set out ; while others were apparently 
so fatigued and worn out that they could scarcely 
drag themselves along — as differently afiected by 
long marching and a severe repulse from a portion 
of the enemy's works they had captured, but were 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 37 

obliged to abandon, for the same reason that has 
caused a like disaster before and since, and will airain 
— want of proper support and generalship. 

Moreover, they were all hungry and thirsty ; and 
the "Ninth" generously placed the contents of haver- 
sack and canteen at their disposal ; and very thankful 
w^ere the recipients for the favor. The liberality of 
Colonel Hawkins's men was not a little enhanced by 
the fact that they did not know how soon they should 
themselves need what they had given away. 

The retreating forces were in a deplorable con- 
dition, and it seemed as though they had endeavored 
to make themselves look as service worn and ridic- 
ulous as possible. 

A piece of artillery, bearing the body of that noble 
and honored martyr. Lieutenant Greble, was next to 
follow on the retreat, dragged slowly along by feeble 
men, who were so worn and w^eary they could scarcely 
keep hold of the rope. 

The "Ninth" was now ordered to turn about and 
cover the rear of the retreating forces. The reason 
for this was apparent ; for had the rebels not been too 
much occupied in conducting their own retreat, but 
had sou2:ht to avail themselves of the advantaires 
given them by misconduct on the part of the Federals 
rather than taken by their own valor, the retreating 
regiments must have suffered materially without this 
strong rear-guard. A rumor, which was set afloat 
and propelled rapidly hj eager patrons, that the 
troops were being led around to the rear to surprise 
the enemy, contributed much to raise the drooping 
3 



88 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

spirits of the forces. Bat the disposition of the dif- 
ferent commands soon dispelled the error. 

Many of tlie troops were straggling throngh the 
country, and the duty of picking them up, preventing 
them from destroying private property, and conduct- 
ing them to their proper camps, was assigned to the 
" Kinth ;" and they at once, by devious circuits round 
about, touched at nearly every house, the Colonel en- 
terino: and turning out the marauders, who were 
oblio'ed to march in front or alono^ with the Zouaves. 
They were also found along the roads, upon either 
hand, in the various attitudes of comfortable exhaus- 
tion ; but were roused up every one, and forced along, 
some needing the quickening touch of the bayonet 
to sharpen their energies before they would move. 
These men being generally placed in front, this por- 
tion of the march of the "Ninth" was made but 
slowly. 

On the return, the balance of the regiment wns met, 
which fell into line. Wlien not far from camp, and 
wdien the small white tents could be seen like a flock 
of sheep feeding upon the hill. Colonel Hawkins, 
coming up by the side of Company B, said, " Boys, 
how would you like a little double-quick?" Some 
did not take this as any thing more than a jest at flrst, 
but upon one of the Zouaves mxaking the remark that 
he was just getting supple for something of that sort, 
the Colonel laughed, gave the order, and soon the 
"Kinth" started on, tramp, tramp, tramp, going into 
camp in splendid style, though they were all so dusty 
they could scarcely recognize each other. 

While in line, before being dismissed, Colonel 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. o9 

Hawkins expressed himself greatly pleased with the 
march thej had made. He had ascertained by ac- 
curate reckoning that the distance passed over was 
twenty four (Virginia !) miles, and the time employed 
was six hours. 

It is due to General Butler to say that he was in 
no way blamable for the failure of this enterprise. 
Had his instructions been carried out, success would 
have crowned the undertaking. 

On the 29th of June, Captain Graham obtained 
permission to take his company out on a scouting ex- 
pedition. The men were very anxious to gain a sight 
of the enemy, whom they had as yet scarcely come 
in contact with, and as it was known that frequently 
the rebels, in small marauding bands, prowled about 
the country approximate to the Union lines, the com- 
pany pushed forward with the determination of mak- 
ing a closer acquaintance with some of them ; though 
with that caution properly belonging to the soldier, 
they were not, we presume, over desirous of meeting 
with a party of superior numbers. 

They threw out an advanced-guard, and after pro- 
ceeding in a tortuous manner, not a great way from 
the outer picket-line they perceived distinct traces of 
the enemy's having approached not long since by the 
way they were going. Evidences were seen in sev- 
eral places that the rebels must have been in consid- 
erable force ; and Company A, not being too eager to 
throw themselves upon a force greater than them- 
selves, took all the precaution the nature of the 
ground permitted, or the business of the day snggest- 
ed. They had gone some distance on the road beyond 



40 ' THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Baker Lee's, wlien tliev ascertained that the Louis- 
iana ''Wild-Cats" were not far off; that they had 
approached the picket of l^ewports IN^ews, but were 
now retiring in haste, for some reason best known to 
themselves. Company A soon after saw large num- 
bers of them, but both parties were shy. The rear- 
guard, however, succeeded in capturing two of the 
" Wild-Cats," who were taken to camp, and subse- 
quently confined at Fortress Monroe. Captain Gra- 
ham, not being successful in finding a force with 
which he might reasonably offer combat, returned 
again to Camp Butler. 

The Fourth of July was a dull day in camp. But 
Colonel Flawkins sent out a detachment of twenty- 
five men from Company F, under command of Cap- 
tain Ilammill, for the purpose of reconnoiteiing some 
ground supposed to be infested by the rebels. They 
left camp at night, and after considerable nocturnal 
perambulations, found themselves near daybreak of 
the morning of the fifth about seven miles up the 
James E-iver. They here encamped for the object of 
resting and breaking their fast, intending afterward 
to proceed to the enemy's position to ascertain his 
strength and intentions. They now learned, how- 
ever, that they were nearer the object of their search 
than they at the time anticipated ; for upon again 
starting forward, they came upon a party of about 
seventy -five rebels not more than a hundred ^^ards 
distant, coming down the road, dragging with them 
two six-pounders. Captain Hammill posted his men 
in the low pine shrub upon the side of the road, 
and when the enemy had approached sufiiciently near 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 41 

to render miTsketrj sure and effective, the Captain 
opened a deadly fire ; wlien tlie leader of tlie rebels 
cried out, '' Washington ! Washington ! " and asked 
who they were. A member of Company F made 
some hasty reply, when the enemy took to the -woods, 
wheeling about their gnns and hanling them away as 
if afraid of their capture. The Zouaves kept np a 
continual fire for some minutes,- until they learned 
that a party of cavalry with the rebels were making 
a circuit to cut them off. They then retired through 
a portion of the woods too intricate for the manenver 
of cavalry. The enemy were re-foi"ming to come npon 
them again, when Captain Hammill ordered a retreat, 
thinking it but rashness to attempt to stand against 
such odds ; for he could not the second time have- the 
advantage of making a surprise, by wdiicli he had un- 
doubtedly at the start saved his entire command from 
capture by a superior force. The Captain succeeded 
in gaining the intelligence that the rebels had lost 
in the engagement Colonel Dreux, of Louisiana, a 
lieutenant and one private killed, and seven others 
wounded. Company F did not lose a man, as the 
enemy's fire was very slight and ill-directed, in conse- 
quence of the concealed position of the Zonaves and 
his own confusion. The detachment returned to 
Camp Butler in haste, and a verbal report of the 
affair was speedily given the commandant of the post. 
Colonel Phelps resolved to give the rebels a severe 
thrashing, if they could be caught. For this pnrpose 
he selected from among his command Lieut.-Colonel 
Betts, with portions of some companies of the 
" Xinth," a force about three hundred strong, ac- 



42 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

compaiiied by a detachment of the First Yermont, 
which immediately started out in pursuit of the en- 
emy, anticipating a collision with him near the spot 
where the skirmish of early morning occurred. The 
command huo^sred the bank of the James River for 
some distance, but when in the vicinity of the rebel 
Captain Jones's dwelling, struck the main road. 
They now came upon the ground where the recent 
action had taken place, and after ascertaining that 
the enemy had wheeled about their artillery (tlie 
track of which was plainly visible, as well as the 
bloody indications of the fight) and retreated, taking 
the killed and wounded with them, Lieut.-Colonel 
Betts urged a vigorous pursuit, in the hope of yet 
overtaking them. 

They had proceeded about eight miles, when, at the 
fork of the road ahead might be seen the rebel vi- 
dettes. Their horses were ready saddled and tied to 
the saplings near. The men occu^^ied a small hut 
commanding a view of three roads. When they saw 
the long column of dust rising from the force ap- 
proaching them, they sprang upon their horses and 
rode swiftly in retreat toward their camp. Lieut.- 
Colonel Betts, however, was determined in the pur- 
suit, and pushed his column ahead. Upon arriving 
at the picket-hut, an examination for any clue to the 
previous skirmish was made in and around that neigh- 
borhood. The " ]S^inth " wrote '' Hawkins's Zouaves " 
upon every available spot with broad jjieces of chalk, 
and invited the rebel reader to make a call at !New- 
ports JN'ews, and bring Magruder along. Captain 
Barnett, with a squad from his company, searched a 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 43 

house, but failed to find the object of their visit. 
Tiie column again started forward, until arriving at a 
cool and shady spot where the road descends, and 
then passes through a small, clear brook, making an 
ascent on the opposite side.* A detachment was 
sent forward, which in a short time returned, stating 
that they had come upon a house not far from the 
hill where it was supposed the enemy were encamped 
in force. The house had been deserted and since oc- 
cupied as a hospital. They found considerable ev- 
idence that the party they were in pursuit of had 
taken their wounded there for attendance. After 
some further reconnoissance, Lieut. -Colonel Belts was 
convinced that it would be folly to advance further 
with the little band he had, and therefore turned his 
troops about and returned to E^ewports ^N^ews. 

Colonel Phelps — since Brigadier- General — whose 
name has, in some respects, been unfortunate in its 
association vv'ith the grandest and most humane epi- 
sode that ever accompanied any war, commanded tlie 
post of !Newports N^ews, and established his head- 
quarters upon the high bank of the James, between 
the battery of columbiads and the landing, and from 
whicli position a full view of the river was obtained 
of all the points in the direction of the enemy. If a 
member of the " Xinth " Avas asked what he thought 
of General Phelps, he would most probably reply 
a,fter this sort: "He is a rigid disciplinarian, a thor- 
ough military scholar, fearless before the enemy, 



* While at this place a single lifle-ball came from the enemy, but 
did no harm, passing over the heads of the men. 



4:4 THE HAWKIXS ZOUAVES: 

prompt and vigilant, with a manner filled with dry, 
often blunt, humorous sarcasm — a queer old man, hut 
I lihe Idm,''^ He always endeavors to avoid enter- 
taining too much confidence in very young people ; 
hence, when the "Hawkins Zouaves" arrived at the 
place, and they being mostly men of eigliteen and 
twenty-five years, he attached to them the prejudiced 
appellation of " the school-boys." He Avas not long 
in ascertaining that the name he had given was pre- 
mature, for their soldierly conduct soon dispelled any 
unfavorable impressions he may have formed of them ; 
and he readily retracted what had been uttered in 
haste, so far as to substitute the more appropriate 
appellation of " Little Zouaves." 

He was quite charmed with the celerity of their 
movements on brigade drill, and frequently when he 
Vv'ished to urge improvemeiits among the other regi- 
ments, he wonld point out the "Little Zouaves" as 
examples worthy of emulation. While it was evident 
to all that his admiration for them was daily on the 
increase, no one could attach the error of partiality 
to him ; for did any breach of discipline chance to 
occur, they were the more severely censured, on the .1 
princi]3le that the occasional faults of the good are ' 
more glaring and tempting to rebuke than the daily 
faults of the bad. And though it has been said that 
they were the recipients of chastisement when they 
did not deserve it, it may also be remarked that it is 
just as likely they may have escaped the same when 
it should have been e^iven. 

It was rumored about camp that Colonel Phelps 
had received a Brigadier General's commission, and 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 45 

therefore he was sometimes called " General '' by 
those who had occasion to speak to him. We remem- 
ber one day a soldier went to his quarters to get his 
signature to a " pass," and without thought gave him 
a title of higher rank than lie held. As he was sign- 
ing the paper he said : " They call me ' General,' 
but I don't know wdiere they get it from. I haven't 
seen the documents yet." 

The brigade hospital was approximate to the Colo- 
nel's quarters, and one day a patient, while indulging 
in the fresh air of a sunny morning opposite the head- 
quarters, thought he discovered, in a speck upon the 
river far distant, one of the enemy's gun-boats, and 
with a vigilant pride immediately conveyed the intel- 
ligence to Colonel Phelps, who came out of his room 
to look at it. To the chagrin of the patient he did 
not use his glass, but gave a careless gaze for only a 
moment. ''He don't seem to care much about it 
after my hurrying to tell him," thought the Zouave. 
The commandant turned about slowly, and in his 
usual way asked : '* Did you come out of the hospi- 
tal ? " " Yes, sir," with a confident air. '' I thoitght 
so^^^ and went back to his room. It then occurred to 
the soldier that it was only the light-house up near 
Godwin's Point. 

On the 8th of July, thirty men of Company A, 
under the charge of Captain Graham, while on a 
scouting expedition, again met the enemy. Marching 
rapidly in the direction of Bethel, and just before 
reaching that place, they came suddenly upon a rebel 
regiment, which had established a temporary camp in 
that vicinity. The enemy flew about, beat the long- 



46 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: . 

roll, fell into line-of-battle, and as Company A stood 
for a moment looking at tliem, they performed many 
other warlike demonstrations. Had they remained 
quiet, and allowed the little force of Union troops to 
advance further upon them, they could undoubted- 
ly have sent them to Richmond. But Captain Gra- 
ham immediately saw how near he was to the trap, 
and called upon Horn, the bugler, to sound the "rally 
on the reserve," which, however, lay back many miles 
to camp. The company left that vicinity on the 
double-quick, leaving the enemy in fearful anticipa- 
tion, awaiting the shock they supposed the "reserve" 
would soon give them. 

The camp of the "Kinth" now presented a fine 
example of th.e neatness and order that usually pre- 
vailed throughout the regiment, and was laid out 
with as strict adherence to the "regulations" as the 
character of the ground would permit. Arbors of 
pine brush were erected over every tent, in a line on 
the company street, to neutralize the torrid effects of 
the burnino; sun. From a distance the whole bore 

CI? 

the appearance of a picturesque grove. But a close 
observation revealed the completeness of its construc- 
tion, and its adaptation to the comforts which the 
existing improvements were designed to promote. 
" Blind ditches" were dug to lead off the superfluous 
water, and the conq^any streets were nicely graded, so 
as to throw the contents of a heavy rain into the 
drain. Most of the tents had flooring, and the arbors 
contained stools, benches, and tables, made by the 
Zouaves, rude but serviceable. Books and domestic 
utensils abounded, which were taken from houses in 



THEIR BATTLES A'ND MARCHES. * 47 

the vicinity, or ratlier saved from destruction, and of 
wliicli a list was in the possession of the post-com- 
mandant. An order was afterward issued that noth- 
ino* of the kind for the futnre sliould be hroui^ht into 
camp. Bnt the vigilance of the gnard was sometimes 
outwitted. 

In the latter part of June, Captain Barnett and a 
squad of men from his company left camp on a for- 
aging expedition. When the advance-guard of the 
]3arty, consisting ( f Jones and Rassiga, had arrived at 
the piece of wood that begins at the road turning off 
to Baker Lee's, they suddenly espied a horseman, who 
was in the act of issuing from the wood in a narrow 
and crooked by-path, but who, upon seeing the near 
approach of an armed foe, hastily wheeled about with 
the intention of making his escape. Seeing Rassiga 
level his piece at him, he stopped and faced him, at 
the same time crying out : " For God's sake don't 
shoot a friend ! " Whereupon Eassiga lowered his 
musket, and the two were about advancing upon the 
horseman, when he drew his revolver, fired several 
shots at them, and v*dieeling about once more endeav- 
ored to make off. He w^as fired at, and though 
Jones was accounted a good shot, the bullets did not 
take perceptible effect. It is presumed that his horse 
did not make the progress through the dense under- 
brush that his fears deemed requisite for the occasion, 
and he therefore abandoned him to the enemy, in 
order the more quickly to elude their pursuit, in 
which he finally succeeded. Captain Barnett and his 
party bringing the animal off safe and sound. The 
Search which w^as afterward instituted for the capture 



48 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

of the master terminated fruitlessly. The brute was 
in fine condition, fully accoutered, with the rider's 
over-coat roiled. 

At a subsecpient period there appeared at the outer 
picket of the post, a flag of truce for the transaction 
of some unimportant business between the lines. 
Major Kimball and several others from the regiment 
were granted the privilege of conferring with the 
agents of the rebels. One of the party bearing the 
truce inquired : 

" Didn't some men beloncrino; to the Zouave reffi- 
ment catch a horse out beyond the line last month ? " 

" Yes, a splendid animal." 

" A splendid hoss, eli ? I reckon he warn't. He 
was mine. I've rid him for six year — he's all run 
down like an old clock that an't got any spring. 
He warn't much loss to me. I would have given 
him a.way, but nobody'd have him. Didn't I come 
it over them fellows, and git away from 'em slick, 
though ? *My spindles made right smart time I 
reckon. I was out be^'ond the saw-mill, too, when a 
force of 3^ou fellows came over towards Warwick. 
You didn't see me, nor didn't catch nobody, I 
reckon. When the regiment halted, and was resting 
there by the little Run, I was up in a tree near by, 
and heard and saw a good deal. A shot was fired, 
but hurt nobody. I know the fellow who fired that 
shot." 

There have been far too many picket incidents of 
the saine character during the war. 

The period which ntTw followed was one of com- 
parative tranquillit}^, scarcely desired by the regi- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES: 49 

ment, and before its end was reached became truly 
irksome. 

About this time a disaffection be^'an to show itself 
among some of the officers, the origin of which is un- 
doubtedly traced back to the disappointment of one or 
two, who had failed in their ambitions hopes. A con- 
spiracy, whose sole strength lay in malice and envy, 
gradually spread itself, and there were led into it mauy 
innocent men, wdio entirely misunderstood the pur- 
poses of those who got it up, or the final result it was 
intended to accomplish. Some of the men thought 
themselves ill-treated in many respects, and they were 
assured that their wrongs all emanated from the com- 
mandant of the regiment, who was now" regarded by 
them with a distrustful eye. 

Weeks passed on, and camp was removed inside the 
intrenchments. Some contention now arose about the 
"right of the line." It was balloted for, and by this 
means the senior Captain lost his position in line ; 
and from this time the conspiracy assumed a more 
serious character. In the mean time the men had 
not been quieted. They found fault with every 
thing, and were informed that it all was simply a 
result of incompetency on the part of the Colonel to 
manage the affairs of the regiment. A great many 
possessed too much good sense to meddle at all with 
the affair, and numbers of those who did, scarcely 
knew what they were about. But some of the men 
had become so deeply involved in the movement, 
that, had it progressed much further in, that direction, 
undoubtedly it would have 'resulted in open mutiny. 
But a new feature w^as at this time contributed to the 



50 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

scheme. The rations were either too fat or too lean ; 
they needed clothing badly ; they had as yet received 
none hnt State pay ; and there was a most decided 
misunderstanding in regard to the period of service 
for which tliey were sworn in. Summing up their 
grievances, they came to the conclusion that they 
were a destitute, forsaken, and abused body of men. 

It was afterward known tliat this icas iwincipally 
the ccmsG of the dissatisf action contimdng and re- 
sidting as it did, and not their dislike to the Colonel, 
either as (7- soldier or gentleman."^ 

Some of their complaints were undoubtedly well 
founded, but the manner in which they were presented 
was in conflict with military law and discipline ; and 
as the men still persisted in the question of their dif- 
ficulties, and were too impatient to await a proper 
settlement. Colonel Hawkins put a check upon the 
whole thing by placing one entire company under 
arrest, including its officers and several others. 

General Butler now made his appearance, and the 
regiment was ordered out on the field to receive him. 
He then addressed them in a very pleasant manner, 
acknowledging that their grievances were sufficient 
to test the patience of men more sober-minded than 
they; but still he would reprimand them for the 
course they had pursued to have them redressed. He 
fixed the fact in their minds that they were in the 
service for two years, which, to say the least, removed 
all doubts in regard to that source of dispute. He 
regretted that -their wardrobe was so scanty ; there 

* Note B in Appendix. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 61 

was culpable neglect somewhere ; he would investi- 
gate, and send them a supply. He was sorry they had 
not received their pay. He would send the paymas- 
ter up in a few days, and they should have plenty of 
silver. 

The men were marched back to their quarters with 
much improved notions about " redress." Had a cor- 
rect understanding been earlier arrived at, even this 
triflino: blii»:ht would never have been attached to the 
fair reputation of the " Kinth." Thus ended the 
farce which might have been attended with more 
serious results had it been under the control of a less 
intelligent body of men. 

Those who originated this scheme to overthrow the 
character of the regiment were surprised to lind that 
they had adopted an unpleasant method of establish- 
ing a correct understanding between the men and 
their commandei', for from this time Colonel Haw- 
kins's popularity with his men rapidly increased. 

It is well known how General Butler kept his 
word. The paymaster came up in a few days and 
settled their accounts; and shortly after an abund- 
ance of clothing was received. 

About the middle of August General Butler was 
organizing an expedition, the purpose of which was 
at that time little known. Having certain know- 
ledge that the rebels had erected forts at Hatteras 
Inlet, not only to capture all unsuspecting vessels 
which, throngh ignorance of the exact position of 
affairs in which the country stood, sailed for the inlet, 
as unsuspecting as a ily sails into a web, but also to aid 
and protect the privateers of the great so-called con- 



02 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

federate navy, and to make it a sort of rendezvons for 
tlie reception of prizes — the General resolved to molest 
tliem in their presnmptnons avocation. He conld not 
think of getting np an expedition Avithont having his 
favorite regiment represented in it, and accordingly 
he sent orders np to Colonel Hawkins to get three 
companies of the Zonaves in readiness to join him. In 
compliance with the order, Companies G, H, and C 
were selected. In haste they completed all the ar- 
rano-ements for niovino-. While they were beins; ra- 
tioned, the destination of the expedition was the 
source of much conjecture. 

But they were in the highest glee at the prospect 
of a change from camp, Avhen, on the morning of 
August 2(>th, they took their departure from Camp 
Butler, and embarked on the steamer Adelaide, in 
which vessel they accompanied the fleet, wdiich was 
composed also of the vessels of war Wabash, Minne- 
sota, Harriet Lane, Cumberland, Pawnee, Monticello, 
and Susquehanna, and the George Peabody, the lat- 
ter having Ave hundred men ol the Twentieth Xew- 
York on board. 

The expedition arrived ofl* Hatteras before noon of 
the 2Tth, Avhere they laj^ to until the following morn- 
ing. 

Before daybreak, however. Captain Jardine, with 
his company, (G,) got ready to land just behind the 
large sand-hills about two miles up the beach. It 
was a dangerous feat to perform — springing out of the 
Doats and wading through the heavy, rolling surf. 
There was great fear that many lives would be lost ; 
but thev all assisted one another, and after consider- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 53 

able, almost siiperliuman cfFort, tliey succeeded in 
getting safely on the land. A few of the other troops 
were landed in the same manner, when it was de- 
clared impossible to debark any more. 

During the landing of the troops the Harriet Lane, 
Monticello, and Pawnee were engaged in throwing a 
continual stream of shell into the low shrub upon the 
Pamlico shore, to drive out the rebels there, and to 
prevent them from dislodging the force that had 
landed. From the fleet the sight was as sublime as 
it was novel to most of. the soldiery. The bright 
bivouac fires 'of Company G could be seen, partly 
hidden by the rising knolls of sand. It had been 
expected that a much larger force of troops would be 
thrown ashore ; but as so few were there, great anxiety 
was manifested by the " I'^intii " lest their gallant 
Company G should be surprised and overpowered by 
the enemy. The rebels w^ere either ignorant of their 
diminutive numbers, or they already considered their 
own case too hopeless to strive for. The latter may 
be inferred from their surrender the following day. 

The rebels having thus been summarily disposed 
of, the Union troops took formal possession of their 
works. 



54 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES; 



Part 



FOUR-TH 






5^atiet|a$ to Boano)je» 

Ij^ virtne of tlie rank of commission, Colonel 
Hawkins assumed command of the landed forces 
at Hatteras, leaving the fleet on the 30th day of 
Angnst, and taking up his headquarters at Fort Clark 
for that purpose. Colonel Max Weber, of the Twen- 
tieth New- York Yolunteers, was placed in command 
of Fort Hatteras, the boundary line of his authority 
extending across the island to -within two hundred 
yards of the fort first surrendered. 

We give below a communication from Colonel 
Hawkins to Major-Gen eral Wool, which contains 
some valuable suggestions in regard to the strategic 
points of Pamlico Sound. 

Fort Clark, Hatteras Inlet, Sept. 6, 1861. 
Major-General John E. ATool, Commanding Department of 

Virginia, Fortress Monroe, Ya. : 

General : On the 30th day of August I landed from the fleet 
and took command of Fort Clark, \yhere I still remain with the 
companies which I brought with me from Newports News. 
During the afternoon of the 30th ult, a delegation on behalf of 
the citizens of this island waited on me, and placed in my hands 
a paper, a copy of which is herewith inclosed, and marked "A," 
and is as follows : 



THEIR BATTLES ANl) MARCHES. 65 

"To THE CoilMANDER OF THE FeDEIIAL FoRCES AT HaTTERAS 

Inlet : 

"Dear Sir: We, the citizens of Cape Hatteras, do ask of 
your honor that you will allow us to return to our homes and 
property, and protect us in the same as neutral citizens, as we 
have never taken up arms against your Government, nor has it 
been our wish to do so. We did not help, by our votes, to get 
North-Carolina out of the Union. Believing that your clemency 
will not allow you to treat us as rebels, who have always been 
loyal citizens, we do earnestly request, for the sake of our 
women and children, that you will comply with our wishes, as 
we seek protection from your honor. 

" Yours very respectfully, 

" Citizens of Hatteras." 

In answer to this communication I requested that as many 
citizens as could might meet me the next day, for the pur- 
pose of arranging terms by which they would be permitted to 
remain here. Agreeably to the request, about thirty men came 
to see me. The terms were contained in an oath, a copy of 
which is here transmitted, and marked "B,'' as follows: 

" State of Nortii-Carolina, 
"Hyde County. 

" We, the undersigned, do solemnl}^ swear that we will bear 
true allegiance to the United States ; that we will not take up 
arms against said Government, or hold an}^ communications with 
its enemies, or aid or comfort its enemies in any. way whatever ; 
that we will give to the commander of Fort Clark any inform- 
ation we ma}'- obtain or receive of the approach of the enemy ; 
and in case we are called upon, we will assist the commandant 
of said fort in his defense thereof against any and all of the 
enemies of the United States ; and we will always, under any 
and in all circumstances, support the Constitution of the United 
States." 



56 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

They concurred in the terms. 

On my part, I have agreed verbally to give them all the neces- 
sary protection against the vigilance committees, which infest 
all parts of the. State, (and which are organized for the purpose 
of suppressing Union sentiment, and pressing young men into 
the service of the Confederate arm}',) and to afford them any 
other protection necessar}'. Two hundred and fifty have already 
taken the oath, and they are still coming in. 

Suggestions. 

1st. Roanoke Island, which commands the Croatan channel. | 

i»between Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds, sliould te occupied at J 

once. It is now held by the rebels. They have a battery com- ' 

pleted at the upper end of the island, and another in course of ^ 

erection at the southern extremity. \ 

2d. A small force should be stationed at Beacon Island, which ' 
is in the mouth of the Ocracoke Inlet, and commands it. , 

3d. Two or three light-draft vessels should be stationed be- \ 
tween the mouths of the Xeuse and Pamlico Rivers. This j 
would shut out all commerce with New-Berne and "Washington, 
both .^f which places have long been entree-ports for privateers. ,i 

4th. There should be at least eight light-draft gunboats in j 
Pamlico Sound. 

5th. Beaufort should be occupied as soon as possible. 

All of these matters should he attended to immediately. Seven 
tliousand men,, judiciously i:>laced vjjon the soil of Xorth- Caro- 
lina., would draw., within the next three weel^s,, ticenty thousand \ 
Confederate troops from the State of Virginia. i 

I wish, if you agree with me, and deem it consistent with i 
your duty, that yow would impress upon the Government the 
importance and necessity of immediate action in this department. , 
Most faithfully your humble servant. 

Rush C. Hawkins, Col. Ninth N. Y. V., 

Commanding; Fort Clark. / 



All analysis of the wisdom embodied in these siio-- 



fi 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. ' 0/ 

gestions would be siiperfluoiis here, for a portion of it 
l^as already become triunipliant history, and what has 
not been acted npon is still apparent. We know how 
Roanoke, ITew-Berne, and Plymouth had been occu- 
pied; and we can yet realize the immense advantage 
to the Union cause which would have accrued from 
complete control of the coast land and inner waters of 
JSTorth-Carolina. There would have been no Weldon 
l^for the rebels. Eichmond would have failed to play 
(tthe nio;htmare in ^Northern homes. Norfolk would 
'inot have been maintained so long. 

In a succeeding report, Colonel Hawkins repeats 

* (;the same ideas in regard to the immediate occupation 

• of Pamlico Sound and its strategic points. He says : 

. I " I still adhere to the suggestions of my former re- 

' port, and would most respectfully urge the imijort- 

ance of immediately occxijoyincj Roanoke and Beacon 

IslandsP 

The two islands mentioned were being fortified by 
the rebels, and before many weeks the position would 
be so strong that a very heavy force would be re- 
quired to dislodge them. At a later date Ave learn 
that Beacon Island was to be abandoned, and its guns 
j and munition removed to other places. But the 
/ transfer of the war material was interfered with by 
. the commandant of Hatteras, as is evident in a re- 
I port to General Wool, dated Sept. 19th : " On the 
f morning of the IGth inst., an expedition, consisting 
; in part of the Union Coast Guard, under charge of 
Lieutenants Powe and Patten, and a detachment from 
the crew of steamer Pawnee, under charge of Lieuten^ 
ant Maxwell, U. S. IS"., the whole commanded by Lieu- 



58 * THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

tenant Eastman of the Pawnee, embarked on board 
the steamer Fanny and one of the lannches belonging 
to the former, and proceeded immediately to Beacon 
Island, where they fonnd a large battery, mounting 
twenty two gnns, four of which had been taken away 
the day previous to New-Berne on steamer Washing* 
ton. The remaining guns were all totally destroyed, 
the bombproofs demolished , and the woodwork of the 
batter}', together with a large pile of lumber, was all 
burned. A light-ship, towed from its moorings by 
the rebels, was also destroyed by fire. The expedition 
returned from complete success, bringing with them 
some eighty shells from the battery." 

Tiie force at N^ewports IS^ews had become materially 
reduced, and all interest attached to the place seemed 
to lag behind tlie wishes of the garrison. Although 
the greater portion of the " Ninth" was still there, 
and had the satisfaction of cheering for the success of 
the expedition in which they were represented, yet 
their desire to leave the place increased. They possi- 
bly might have been contented, had their Colonel re- 
mained with them. As if anticipating their wishes, an 
order came to Lieut. -Colonel Betts to proceed to Hat- 
teras with five more companies, and join the portion 
of the " Ninth " at that place. Accordingly, they 
left Newports News on September 10th, leaving Major 
Kimball at Camp Butler, in command of the two 
remaining companies, B and K. 

Lieut.-Colonel Betts with his command landed at 
Hatteras on September 11th, and by direction of Col- 
onel Hawkins proceeded up the island about two 
miles, and established a camp on the shore of Pamlico 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 59 

Sound, whicli was named Camp Wool. Pickets were 
thrown out a few miles above that place, being, the 
outpost of Hatteras, to protect the force below against 
any body of the enemy that might come down to 
effect a landing between Camp Wool and Trent ; for 
intelligence was received that the rebel force on Roa- 
noke Island was being daily increased, and steamers 
and barges sent there for a purpose too definite to 
render conclusions diificult. It seemed now very 
j)robable that a battle on Hatteras would shortly take 
place, and Colonel Hawkins became deeply reim- 
pressed with the necessity of "immediate action in 
that department." But his counselings and warn- 
ings were either unheeded or put off too long. 

It became now tlie part of prudence to fix a camp 
at Chicomocomico, and the seven companies of the 
Twentieth Indiana at Fort Clark were dispatched to 
the upper end of the Island for that purpose, which 
we shall soon see was a wise one, notwithstanding the 
" American Conflict " has no knowledge of the " ex- 
cuse offered for this dangerous division of his forces."* 

The gunboat Fanny, employed in running between 
Fort Hatteras and Chicomocomico, transporting the 
quartermaster and commissary stores, was captured 
when about thirty-six miles above Hatteras Inlet. 
She was in shallow water about four miles ofi" that 
part of the shore where the camp was, and under the 
direction of Sergeant-Major Peacock a detail of the 
Zouaves were unloading her cargo in boats plying 

* No " excuse " was ever ofiered, and the " Conflict " was wise in not 
publishing one. 



60 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES 

between the vessel and the island, when three rebel 
steamiers, the Coifee, ^Yindslow, and Jnanalauski, 
made their appearance, rapidly coming down upon 
her in such a way as to completely hem her in. 'No 
effort was made to destroy the cargo or vessel, or to 
prepare for defense, and tlie Fanny surrendered with 
all on board, including Sergeant-Major Peacock,* 
with nine men of the " Ninth" New- York, and twenty 
men of the Twentieth Indiana ; also all the new over- 
coats of the latter regimen t. The captain of the Fanny 
had, some time previous, been arrested and lodged in 
Fortress Monroe for refusing to take the oath of al- 
legiance, and the manner in which the vessel was sur- 
rendered left no doubt that it was a conspired navy 
freak on his part. This seemed a prelude to the dis- 
aster which soon followed. 

At daybreak, on tlie 4tli of October, the enemy was 
first seen approaching in a direct line for the Chico- 
mocomico shore. They appeared like a few specks 
upon the water, were closely watched, and in a short 
time their vessels could be plainly made out, laden 
with troops, and coming down upon the camp of the 
Indiana regiment. Colonel BroAvn made what little 
preparation occurred to him ; but tlie rebels came 
upon him hastily, and he retreated more hastily. It 
is true that the enem}^ was landing a force below to 
cut off his retreat, and, so far, they should have been 
met ; but had Colonel Hawkins's plan of defense been 
carried out, the aifair would not have terminated so 
disastrously as it did. The result, as anticipated, 

* See Xote C, J^ppendix. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 61 

sliould an attack be made, was to have placed the 
entire landed force of the enemy in the situation of 
captives. 

At the first stage of alarm, a loyal native rode 
qnicldy down to Camp "Wool, and informed Colonel 
Hawkins of the condition of affairs, who sent Major 
Jardine with dispatches of instructions to Colonel 
Brow^n. The Major was not long in making the dis- 
tance, and he found the force there already in a de- 
moralized conditioii. 

A moment after receiving intelligence of the at- 
tack. Colonel Hawkins, after dispatching a messen- 
ger of alarm to the commandant of the naval force, 
immediately left Camp Wool with eight companies 
of the " Mnth," and marched to the support of Colo- 
nel Brown. It was a forced march, and the severest 
one the regiment had, up to that time, undertaken — 
one mile on the loose sand being fully equivalent to 
two on firmer ground. They arrived at Hatteras 
Light during the night, and bivouacked till dawn of 
the following day, when they covered the retreat of 
the Indiana men, who were in a very demoralized 
condition, with the natives of both sexes and all ages 
clinging to them for protection. The rebels did not 
show fight upon the approach of the " J^inth," not- 
withstanding the Third Georgia regiment, which was 
there, had expressed itself as very desirous of a close 
contact with the '' Red-heads." It will be seen that 
they did have that pleasure on more than one occa- 
sion afterward. 

Companies B and K, still remaining at l^ewports 
4 



62 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES*. 

]N'ews, under Major Kimball, were now ordered to 
join tlie regiment at Hatteras, and accordingly they 
made ready ; and when all the stores and luggage 
were on board the S. B. Spaulding, they were march- 
ed to the General's headquarters to bid him farewell. 
Although at different times previous he had been de- 
prived of portions of the regiment he loved so well, 
yet he was consoled by the companies left behind ; 
but now the last of the " Little Zouaves " had ar- 
ranged themselves before his quarters to say good-by. 

Oh ! how vividly is the picture of that scene recalled 
to the minds of those who so tearfully participated in 
it ! No words can fully express the regret with 
which General Phelps parted from those two com- 
panies which had been so kindly associated with him 
since they entered the service. He endeavored to 
speak to them ; he tried to tell them of the first im- 
pressions they made on his mind ; how he received 
them as schoolboys, and that he now parted from 
them with the affectionate regard and regret of a pa- 
ternal teacher ; but his heart seemed to come up in 
his throat, and to stop the words, and it was in vain 
that they tried to come out. He could not make a 
speech — he broke down ; and although he was not 
seen to take out his handkerchief, yet we will not be 
responsible for what he did when alone in his quar- 
ters a moment after. But the cheers which were so 
heartily given came to his relief. The Spaulding re- 
ceived the last of her freight and pushed from the dock. 

The next morning the comjDanies disembarked at 
Fort Hatteras, and began their march for Camp 
Wool. A Zouave writes : 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 63 

"Sand, sand, Hatteras sand! We understood no marching 
would have to be done, and so we had loaded our knapsacks 
very heavily. We soon began to sink under them when we had 
gone but one mile over the loose sand, into which we sank deep- 
ly at every step, and our case was aggravated still more deeply 
from the fact that we had little prospect of any thing to eat or 

drink In the tent the following morning a messmate 

found his head half-buried in sand. Sand everywhere — in your 
hair, in your shoes, sifts through your clothes, in your eyes and 
nose, between your teeth, fingers and toes, in your coffee and 
your hose, in your plate, in your knapsack and ink-bottle. 1 am 
disgusted with Hatteras — it must be the sand-bank of creation." 

A great deal, both true and false, has been said of 
the '' Barnard aifair," (as it was called,) and we deem 
it due to all parties concerned to give a succinct but 
impartial statement of the facts. 

On the 1st of August, 1861, the First Regiment 
l^ew-York Yolunteers, stationed at Camp Butler, 
Newports News, received their regular pay, and on 
the night following the men of Company K, having 
imbibed an indiscreet portion of the elevating bev- 
erage, became very noisy and troublesome, and Cap- 
tain Barnard came from his tent, ordering them to 
cease their clamor ; and they choosing to make all 
the more, he drew a pistol and shot one man through 
the shoulder, from the effects of which he nearly re- 
covered after a long confinement. 

Captain Barnard immediately saw the crime his 
temper had been guilty of, and thought it prudent to 
vacate the scene of excitement, which he did by seek- 
ing refuge in the General's quarters, where he re- 
mained to save his life, for a number of the wounded 



64 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

man's comrades had loaded their muskets and were 
searching the camp for him. 

He a short time subsequent received a transfer to 
the Ninth ISTew-York, and when arrived at the head- 
quarters of the regiment to report for duty, Colonel 
Hawkins would not recognize his commission, but 
sent him back to General Wool. He arrived at Hat- 
teras a second time, when General Mansfield had 
been succeeded in command of the post by General 
"Williams, who, in Special Orders E'o. 5, dated Oct. 
22d, 1861, ordered the transferred Captain to again 
report to Colonel Hawkins for duty. But it is well 
known that the latter would never consent to give 
him the least shadow of a command in any company 
of the " Ninth," and having forcible reasons, he was 
neither mysterious nor fearful in the position he 
assumed in resisting the authority of the Governor. 
The " Eegulations " are explicit on this subject, and 
give to the War Department alone the power of 
transferring men from one regiment to another. The 
Colonel, therefore, saw at once that Governor Morgan 
transcended the power of his office in trying to force 
this disagreeable and disreputable man upon his regi- 
ment. Colonel Hawkins was polite, but emphatic, 
in giving all to understand that the "Ninth New- 
York Yolunteers was not composed of released occu- 
pants from the Alms-house or Penitentiary, nor of any 
other set of vagabonds." But there were also other 
valid reasons why he would not assign Barnard to a 
command in the regiment. He felt that the recog- 
nition in office of a man who had flagrantly violated 
the first principles of humanity would be " a manifest 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 65 

injury to the service," and tliat there was but one 
course to be pursued. Consequently, npon a further 
culmination of the matter. General Williams issued 
an order placing him under arrest for refusing to 
comply with the Special Orders "No. 5. 

Under date of October 31st, Colonel Hawkins is 
ordered to rej^ort to Major-General Wool, at depart- 
ment headquarters, for trial, which he obeyed on the 
the departure of the first steamer for Fortress Monroe. 
When the Colonel took his leave the men gathered 
around him upon the beach and dock, manifesting an 
nnusual degree of love and good-will, an evidence 
that he was fast being reinstated in those associations 
of mutual confidence and esteem which he formerly 
enjoyed, but which had never gained such ascendency 
over the men as at the present time. 

He addressed the men briefly. If he was success- 
ful in the trial, he would return to them and take 
them from Hatteras ; if he should fail, he would never 
return ; but in that event commended them to be 
faithful to a future commander. But he assured them 
no one would love them or care for them as he had. 
He seated himself in the boat, and as he was rowed 
from the shore, waved his fez in reply to the long, 
loud cheers of the men. The band discoursed an 
affecting air, and many turned away to conceal the 
tear that flowed down the cheek, while others eagerly 
watched the boat until it was a mere speck upon the 
water. 

Colonel Hawkins was received by General Wool 
with marked cordiality ; and after the circumstances 
wliich brought him there were fully inquired into, 



66 THE HAWKINS ZOUAYES : 

the General dismissed him with an entire approval of 
the position he had taken, and sent him with dis- 
patches to the President ; in a brief interview Mr. 
Lincoln frankly admitted that his view of the ''Bar- 
nard affair" was a correct one, and that no other 
should be recognized. 

During the temporary absence of Colonel Hawkins, 
Lieut.-Colonel Betts assigned Captain Leon Barnard 
to Company I. But the Captain soon learned that 
the assumption of the command brought him in con- 
tact with more difficulty than he had probably antici- 
pated. Many little incidents were constantly occur- 
rino; to remind him of the disao^reeable nature of the 
position he was attempting to hold, until after two 
very long days of inexorable vexation he was abso- 
lutely compelled to leave the regiment. He was 
transferred to the Third New- York Volunteers. 

Shortly after, the men were gladdened with the 
return of their Colonel, who took them by the hand 
as a brother. He staid only a few hours, and then 
went to Washington. He was working faithfully for 
the regiment, and the men knew it. 

On the last day of October a terrific storm arose 
upon the whole coast of the Carolinas, being the most 
violent among the treacherous shoals of Hatteras, 
and more especially upon the famous Diamond Reef. 
Sergeant Glinchy and two men of the "J^inth" were 
lost in a small boat ; and the " Hut Picket " of twelve 

men, under command of Sergeant W , with the 

assistance of Captain Stowe, a native, barely escaped 
from their perilous situation. Duncan's creek, wliich 
they had crossed in the morning, had become so 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 67 

swollen that their commimication with the camp was 
almost entirely cut off. In one hour more their es- 
cape would have been a miracle, for "Bald Beach" 
was completely overflowed by the sea washing into 
the sound. 

During the months of November, December, and 
January the various companies of the regiment 
moved and removed their camps quite frequently, 
and finally settled down in their original positions, 
just previous to their departure from Hatteras. 

On the 13th day of January the S. B. Spaulding 
again arrived at Hatteras with Colonel Hawkins, fol- 
lowed by numerous vessels of the Burnside Expedi- 
tion. Major Kimball was drilling a battalion of the 
regiment upon "Bald Beach," when the Colonel 
arrived on the ground accompanied by General 
Burnside and a portion of his staff. "]^ow, boys," 
said the Major, " three cheers," and three times 
three were given heartily, after which the expres- 
sions of joy exhibited by the men at the return of 
their Colonel knew no bounds. In their sudden hap- 
piness they saw a vision of relief from the " durance 
vile" of Hatteras, which the treatment received from 
the Commanding General, who employed the troops 
in futile work upon useless fortifications, had rendered 
untenable with any degree of contentment.* 

Orders were immediately received to have the 
equipments and appointments of the regiment en- 
tirely complete, and to make such preparations that 
the troops might be able to move at an hour's notice. 
The investigation was thorough — every want was 

* Note E in Appendix. 



68 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

supplied, and the men were once more clieerful at 
the prospect of again being treated like soldiers. But 
the long delay, occasioned by the unfavorable and 
stormy condition of the weather, for a moment threw 
a damper upon their strong hopes, which could not, 
however, be wholly extinguished. 

After the greater portion of the expedition had 
safely passed the " Swash," direct orders were issued 
that the " Ninth " must make ready to embark. So 
little remained to be accomplished in the way of 
preparation, that early the next morning- (the 3d 
day of February) the regiment marched, in a drench- 
ing rain, to Fort Hatteras, the point of embarkation, 
where they were disposed of, and placed upon vessels 
which had been appropriated for their occupation. 

About eight o'clock on tlie morning of the 5th of 
February the whole fleet started under way, and as 
each vessel took up its position in the line designated 
by previous orders, the various bands of the regi- 
ments, at the proper time, struck up with a martial 
spirit the enlivening air of " Hail to the Chief," 
which, Avith a thrilling pulsation of patriotic har- 
mony, throbbed against the breasts of all the soldiers, 
filling them with an enthusiasm that continually in- 
creased as they further advanced toward the object of 
the great movement they were engaged in. At six 
o'clock P.M., the whole fleet dropped anchor, and with 
few exceptions remained stationary until morning, 
those of each brigade lying near their respective flag- 
ships for orders. 

At eight o'clock a.m. of the 6th, the fleet again 
moved forward; but in consequence of a high wind 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 69 

and heavy fog, again lay to about noon, each vessel 
anchoring in its proper position, until early on the 
following day, when every thing proving favorable, 
anchors were again weighed, and the floating city 
once more in motion, plowing steadily forward in 
the direction of the enemy. 

Arriving in distinct view^ of Koanoke Island so soon 
conveys the idea that the fleet was not far off* when 
the fog prevailed. And now as the ships neared the 
enemy they seemed to straighten up their tall masts 
to their full height, proudly advancing to victory. It 
was an imposing sight, and its very grandeur seemed 
a guarantee of a noble triumph over a base foe. 

The gunboats now steamed ahead, and when suffi- 
ciently near the enemy, opened upon the different 
points furiously, as fast as the rebels exposed their 
batteries by engaging the Union fleet. The trans- 
ports w^ere stationed at a safe distance from the ac- 
tion, or moved slowly forward, the eager troops 
mounting the rigging and cross-trees to gain a more 
uninterrupted view of the bombardment. We pass 
over the events connected with the bombardment, 
and give our attention to the noble work that was 
accomplished the next day by the troops composing 
General Burnside's command. 

At given signals from the flag-ships, the troops 

began to debark in small boats at Ashby's Landing, 

about five o'clock p.m., and took up position one mile 

inland, driving in the rebel pickets. !N"ight closed 

around them, and a large bivouac w^as established at 

the place, the camp-fires at a distance lending more 

beauty to the scene than a close experience of it could 
4* 



70 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

appreciate. About eight o'clock in the evening, the 
" Mnth " was transferred on the steamer Union, and 
soon after landed at the point which had been se- 
lected. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 71 



Part Fifth : 

Boanol^e to Linton. 

THE passage of so many regiments over the marsli 
had worked the soil into the consistency of soft 
clay, and when the Zouaves pushed forward to the 
bivouac, they found prog^'ess extremely difficult in 
some places. At a small stream whose water had 
been drained by the falling tide, leaving only its 
mud, they were obliged to cross upon some rails 
thrown loosely over, and in the darkness missteps 
were common, and the incident of going down to the 
bottom of the slough with one foot on either side of 
a rail occurred frequently. 

At a point where many paths diverged, there were 
stationed the staff-officers of the different brigades 
and divisions, calling out in peculiar tones of their 
own, This way such a regiment ! and That way such a 
regiment ! Arriving upon the ground, a scene of the 
utmost confusion seemed to prevail. Each division 
had stacked arms in a position that would be conve- 
nient for falling in en masse at a moment's warning ; 
and the soldiers were gathered in close order about 
the fires they had kindled, or, wrapped in their blank- 
ets, lay rolled up on the ground with the intention 
of getting a little rest and sleep if they could. But 



72 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

Morpheus was not liberal that night, and though 
many attempts were made to court his graces, few 
met with any favor or success. The " Ninth " stack- 
ed their arms in proper place, and afterward built 
their own fires, around which they crowded in large 
circles, some cooking the raw bacon that had been 
issued to them, others singing songs of patriotism or 
comicality, others pouring into marvelous ears the 
wonders that had already occurred since landing. 
The rain, which was now descending steadily, and 
continued all the night, added not a little to the dis- 
comfort of the troops. 

The only house upon the premises was occupied as 
quarters by the generals and their staff. An ofiicer 
writes home : " The generals had gone up garret — 
there were no rooms up-stairs — and had lain down on 
the floor and gone to sleep. After an hour or so, the 
ofiicer s present (the room was crowded with them) 
began to make arrangements for going to sleep. He 
was a lucky man who was able to get in that house; 
luckier was he who could get a chair to sit in ; and 
supremely fortunate was the man who could secure 
a place to lie down and sleep in. I found an old 
friend in the room who had possession of a wooden 
bench about two feet long, which he invited me to 
share with him ; so we sat astride of it facing each 
other ; he laid his head upon my right shoulder, and 
his shoulder supported my head in the same way, and 
in this position we fell asleep." 

A short time before daybreak a false alarm was 
created, having its origin in a slight disturbance on 
picket, and the " Ninth " sprang every man to his 



TIIEUl BATTLES AND MARCHES. 73 

mnsket, as though there was but one to grasp, with 
that alacrity which had been drilled into them so 
long that it had become as an impulse in their nature 
as a regiment. In less time than is required to state 
the fact, the whole force had seized their arms and 
were prepared to resist the supposed attack. The 
sensation of alarm died slowly away, as did the gloom 
of that long and anxious night, and a presaging si- 
lence prevailed throughout the camp. Who might 
know what the day would bring forth ? All seemed 
wrapt in the deep consciousness that a battle was im- 
minent. But what the result ? The question was 
inwardly asked by many ; but as orders to advance 
were received, the answer must be sought upon the 
battle-field ; it must be written by dying fingers in 
characters of blood. 

One after another of the regiments left the late biv- 
ouac, the Third brigade, in which was the " Ninth," 
remaining in the reserve ; and soon came the sound 
of musketry, like the intermittent rolls and flams of 
a drum ; " the cannon's awful breath screaming the 
loud halloo of death," was borne to the waiting ears 
through the hollow wood. But what is that distant 
murmur, increasing and swelling on the heavy air ? 
" They cheer — 'tis a victory," cried the reserve, with 
enthusiasm, taking up the cheer with renewed vigor. 
A lull was perceptible in the firing, as though both 
forces were drawing nearer under cover, and then it 
■ seemed that the conflict suddenly burst out again 
'with increased violence, as if the foes had grappled 
together in their rage. 

The battle was still continuous, and about ten 



74 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

o'clock A.M., the Third brigade was sent for, and they 
began to advance, the Hawkins Zouaves taking the 
lead, with them and at their head the heroic Lient.-Col- 
onel M. De Monteuil. The road leading to the scene 
of action was narrow and tortuous, and it was fre- 
quently necessary to undouble files in order to make 
room for the wounded, who were now being brought 
in. It was a pitiable sight, but it gave birth to a 
resolution that determined to gain a victory worthy 
of such blood ; and the " Ninth " pushed forward 
with a nervous anxiety to grasp the rebel foe by the 
throat. They were now close upon the marsh, where 
the battle was roaring with unabated fury, the bullets 
of the enemy beginning to fly about, striking the 
trees or whistling deep in the forest. But the field 
of conflict could not yet be seen by the Zouaves, so 
dense was the wood. A reporter was observed be- 
hind a tree securely making his notes. General 
Parke was in great glee, using his sword as, pointing 
out the way, he said : " That's right ! come on ! we 
have plenty of men ; more than we know what to do 
with — the day will be ours." 

On they advance, the head of the column is near 
the clearing, the bullets and shot getting thicker. 
The Zouaves will never forget the words of General 
Foster : '* E'ow is the time, and you are the men : 
charge the battery !" Upon either hand the Massa- 
chusetts and Connecticut troops gave way to make 
room for them, crying : " Here come the Eed-caps ! 
they are going to charge !" " Come on ! you are the 
men!" etc. The reply that many of the Zouaves 
gave, as they hurried forward on the double-quick, 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 75 

was : '' That is no way to fight, lying in the grass 
like snakes ; why don't you get up and fight like 
men ?" 

The orders Colonel Hawkins received were to en- 
deavor to flank the enemy on their left ; and for this 
purpose he led the regiment a short distance off the 
" causeway " into the swamp. The utter impassa- 
bility of the morass and abattis immediately assured 
him that a different programme must be pursued, and 
that without deliberation. He suddenly conceived 
the resolution of making a desperate charge upon the 
enemy, and he knew this must be done without de- 
lay, or suffer the severe punishment inflicted upon the 
troops lying in the wood under the heavy fire of the 
rebel battery. He turned the head of the column 
again upon the narrow road leading through the 
swamp, and the only available means of access to the 
battery. For a few moments past all firing had 
ceased, and the stillness of death sat like a spectre 
upon the battlefield. At this instant Lieut.-Colonel 
Betts came up to Colonel Hawkins, and said : " I 
think. Colonel, we had better charge the battery." 
" Tell Flockton to sound 4;he charge," was the Colo- 
nel's reply. Major Kimball was standing off the 
'' causeway " in the mud and water up to his waist ; 
Chaplain Conway was near the head of the regiment. 
The thunder of the " red artillery " reopened the 
combat, and the moment the Zouaves beheld the puff 
of smoke from the embrasures, every man prostrated 
himself upon his face with the quickness of thought, 
and with a whirl of awful destruction, the grape and 
canister sped overhead and lodged in the wood be- 



76 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: * 

hind, scattering death in the ranks of the regiments 
there stationed. 

It was at this moment that the brave De Monteiiil 
received a ball in the forehead, and fell with his face 
to the foe. His death was deeply regretted by all 
the men. 

All this occupied but a few moments, and when 
Colonel Hawkins had again reached the " causeway" 
with the head of the column, he saw Major Kimball 
coming in on the charge with the left wing of the 
regiment. While the smoke from the enemy's guns 
still mantled tlieir works, the clear sound of the 
bugle-notes was heard, and the Zouaves sprang 
again to their feet, and shouting the war-cry of " Zoo- 
zoo-zoo !" both wings of the regiment rushed on to- 
gether, many of the men in the onset being jostled 
from the roadway into the deep mud and water on 
either hand ; they soon reached the moat filled with 
water, into which they sprang, and began climbing 
up the enemy's battery. By their alacrity every ob- 
stacle was overcome, and pushing or pulling each 
other up on the parapet, (accomplishing a feat which 
the enemy had thought i^npossible,) upon which the 
colors were planted, they drove the rebels from their 
guns before they had time to reload and pour into the 
Zouaves a second volley.* 

It was one of the most imposing sights, as well 

as THE FIKST BAYONET-CHARGE OF THE WAR. A pris- 
oner after the battle said : " It was perfectly frightful 
to witness the mad career in which the Zouaves ad- 
vanced upon a work, which, until that moment, every 

* Note F in Appendix. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 77 

one in it bad snpposed to be impregnable. But yon 
did not wbip us out ; you only scart us out, tbat's 
all!" 

Tlie Colonel immediately re-formed tbe regiment, 
and pressed forward in pursuit of tbe flying rebels. 
Mud, water, and under-brusb were passed tbrougb, 
and tbey at lengtb reacbed tbe marsby sbore of Sbal- 
lowback Bay, wbere tbey saw a portion of tbe enemy 
endeavoring to make tbeir escape in small boats to 
]^ag's Head. Tbe only boat tbat could be readied 
witb musketry was bailed ; but as it disregarded tbe 
summons and failed to put about, a volley was poured 
into it by Company G, wbicb proved so effective tbat 
a number of tbe fuo^itives were wounded, and tbe boat 
came to suddenly, and slowly returned to tbe island. 
Among tbe captured was O. Jennings Wise, son of 
tbe virulent rebel ex-governor of Virginia. 

In tbe mean time General Foster, witb bis brigade, 
bad also pursued tbe flying bost, and forced tbem to 
capitulate on unconditional terms ; and as tbe "Nintb" 
stacked tbeir arms near tbe bouse of Mr. Jarvis, sev- 
eral of tbe captor regiments passed, and cbeered 
beartily for tbe '^ cbarge of tbe Zonaves." O. J. "Wise, 
wbo bad received several wounds, Vv^as carried by to 
tbe bouse, and as be passed, said, addressing tbe 
"Nintb": "You are tbe only men ^\\o fought to- 
day." Afterward, in conversation witb Major Kim- 
ball, and just before bis deatb, wbicb occurred in tbe 
afternoon of Sunday, tbe 9tb, be stated witb confi- 
dence tbat tbe battery could bave defied all tbe troops 
on tbe island for several days, bad tbe figbting against 
it been carried on in tbe manner it was during tbe 



'78 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

morning until tlie approach of the " Red-caps." They 
felt able to resist the bushwhacking style of those 
troops lying in the wood, and felt comparatively se- 
cure up to the time that the Zouaves rushed out of 
the wood upon the " causeway," and w^hat little doubt 
this gave was banished when they saw the regiment 
prostrated by the grape and canister, as he supposed, 
utterly annihilated. But when they again sprang 
to their feet, and madly rushed along the *' cause- 
way," the rebels fled, more alarmed than hurt. " We 
were actually frightened from our position." 

The question has often been asked, " Did Colonel 
Hawkins particij^ate in the charge on the rebel bat- 
tery, and if he did, why is it that his name is not 
associated with the victory, and Major Kimball only 
is usually represented as having led the Zouaves for- 
ward so bravely \ " A reply is not difiicult for one 
acquainted witli the precise facts of the affair, though 
it may involve other questions less important. Colo- 
nel Hawkins's report of the battle certainly removes 
all doubt that he was present in the engagement. 
That he acted less than bravely the gallant heroes 
he led will not admit. From this, then, those who 
present the question may conclude that it might be 
love of modesty, or it might be fear of self-praise, 
that prohibits his own name from standing foremost. 
It will be seen that the report of the affair, w^hile 
desirous of giving due credit to the gallant Major, 
can not abstain from according just praise to all'vix 
the regiment, both officers and men. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 79 

Roanoke Island, N. C, February 9, 1862. 
Beig. -General John G. Parke: 

General : Agreeably to your orders, my regiment disem- 
barked from the transports and landed upon the island on the 
evening of the Yth inst. The next morning the Ninth New- 
York Volunteers, with other regiments of your brigade, were 
ordered out to reinforce the brigades of Generals Reno and Fos- 
ter, which had been engaged for about two and a half hours. 
Upon reaching the battle-ground I was ordered to outflank the 
enemy on their left, where they were in position behind an in- 
trenchment mounting three guns. After leading the Ninth New- 
York into a marsh, immediately in front of the enemy's work, 
amidst a heavy fire from them of grape and musketry, the order 
was given to charge the rebels with fixed bayonets. This was 
done in gallant style, Major Kimball taking the lead. The ene- 
my's works were soon carried, and hastily abandoned by them. 
All officers and men of the regiment behaved with great gallantry 
and bravery ; it is impossible to say who is most deserving, or 
who merits the most applause. In my opinion all deserve credit 
and praise alike. 

After this we were ordered to pursue the rebels, which we 
did, and succeeded in taking some forty prisoners ; among them 
were several officers and men of the "Richmond Blues," who 
had composed a part of the "Wise Legion," with Captain 0. 
Jennings Wise at their head, who was badly wounded, and was 
trying to make his escape across to Nag's Head, 

I regret that I have to report the death of M, De Monteuil, 
Lieut,-Colonel of the D'Epaneuil Zouaves, who went into the 
field with the Ninth New- York as a volunteer. He was killed 
instantly while nobly urging my men on to the charge. He 
dies greatly lamented by all the officers and men of the regi- 
ment who came in contact with him. His bravery was as great 
as his patriotism was sincere, and I can not but feel that had he 
lived he would have proved a most valuable officer. 

The Ninth New-York had two lieutenants and thirteen privates 
wounded. Very respectfully yours, etc. 

Rush 0. Hawkins, 
Colonel Ninth New- York Volunteers. 



80 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

After the "IsTinth" liad stacked their arms in Jar- 
vis's corn-field, and were assured that all fighting was 
over with for that day, and a guard was securel}^ set 
around, they began to build their camp-fires by which 
they might warm themselves, and dry some of the 
wetness from their clothing, although it had scarcely 
done raining, nor did it entirely cease until the next 
day. They crowded around the cheering blaze, hold- 
ing their shoes and socks over it on sticks, and talked 
of and listened to the difi'erent stories of the battle. 
Major Kimball took great delight in expressing him- 
self, as an old soldier and capable of judging, in re- 
gard to their creditable conduct in the fight, and said 
he had seen the commander of a gunboat who prais- 
ingly told him that when the fleet received intelli- 
gence of their daring charge, every vessel sent up 
a prolonged shout and cheer for the "Hawkins 
Zouaves," not merely because they made the charge, 
but because the charge was made so well ; and, 
although they appreciated the noble bearing and 
behavior of all the troops, they could not withhold 
the separate praise won by distinguished merit, no 
matter who the deserving" parties were. 

As they anticipated remaining over night in the 
neighborhood of their present bivouac, they began to 
cast about for some means of protection from the 
weather, from which they had already suffered a 
great deal. A sufficient number from each mess 
built the required shelter, making usually a frame- 
work, and then a covering with pinebrush ; the bed- 
ding of whatever material was most readily procured 
in the adjoining wood. That night was passed upon 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 81 

the ground in a most uncomfortable manner, tlie 
greater number of the men being still wet. Many 
and widely different were the disagreeable experiences 
of that Saturday night. But no complaints were 
heard — the men rather liked the hardships they were 
called upon to endure, for their present life was truly 
that of the soldier's in actual service ; and we only 
allude to these privations and the condition of the 
weather from the fact that such are too often over- 
looked in both the public and private histories of 
soldiers' lives. Few battles are fought in pleasant 
weather, and fighting is not the hardest work a sol- 
dier does. 

On the following day the Zouaves bethought them* 
that something for the inner man would be agreeable. 
Few of the men had any thing in haversack, and they 
anxiously looked for the arrival of meat, coffee, and 
crackers. But none came, and as foraging was not 
generally allowed, it required considerable patience 
and forbearance to resist the demands of hunger. 
Some succeeded in obtaining a meagre supply for 
themselves, but the majority still wanted. 

In their peregrinations through the woods they fre- 
Cjuently came upon straggling rebels ; and it was an 
amusing sight to see a little Zouave enter camp bring- 
ing as captives two large and stalwart " Johnnies," 
one in either hand. 

The regiment received orders to move, and after 
dinner — if such a nominality can be pardoned where 
there is nothing to eat — the right wing marched to a 
different part of the island ; and about dark the left 
wing went below near a hospital, and not far from the 



82 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

"nine-gun battery;" in allusion to wliicli we insert 
the follow^ing from a soldier's letter : 

"Before dark on the evening of Sunday we moved our camp 
near three miles away, by a hospital on the Croatan shore. It 
was in a beautiful open forest of tall pines, on high ground, and 
through the trees we could look out vipon the waters of the 
Sound. I observed that the trees were barked and broken by 
shot ^nd shell — one large pine lying upon the ground by its 
severed stump. Our Major came down, and as he crowded up 
to the fire said : ' Sergeant, have you a cracker to give me ? ' I 
replied that I was not in possession of such a thing. Corporal 
Fisher and I went down to the battery, and while passing through 
the camp of the Tenth Connecticut, one of the Fourth Rhode 
Island had on a red flannel cap, which was meant to resemble 
*ourfe2, but in reality looked like a fool's-cap, and one of the 
"Tenth" said: ' There, you may as well take that red thing off 
your head, for you can't pass yourself off for one of the Zoo-zoos.' 
They asked us if we had much to ^, and upon receiving our 
reply that for the past two days we had only what we could 
pick up, they bade us sit down, and then they alternately pressed 
us with meat, crackers, sweet potatoes, and coffee, and talked of 
the death of their Colonel, (Russell,) killed in the fight ; and 
when we left them they gave us all the compliments and potatoes 
we could carry ; and when we got back to camp, found that some 
few tents had been procured. I could not sleep for the rheu- 
matic pains I had ; and I was but one of a great number thus 
aflflicted for the third night in drenched clothing." 

In the forenoon of the succeeding day the regiment 
was marched to the beach of Croatan, " while the snow 
fell thick and fast, but scarcely touched the ground. 
They drank some of the water and found it to be 
fresh." The different companies were rowed to their 
several cparters upon the steamers, etc. in small boats. 
Shortly after removing their equipments, Companies 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 83 

B find H were sent for to go on a reconnoissance. 
"We had been in our old quarters only about an 
hour, and our coffee and meat was all but ready for 
us, when we were ordered away and had to leave it, 
hungry and tired as we were, to go on board the 
Picket." Subjoined is a portion of a report made by 
Colonel Hawkins : 

Steamer Virginia, February 11, 1862. 
Brig.-General J. G. Parke: 

General : In accordance with orders received from you on the 
10th inst, I proceeded with two companies of the Ninth New- 
York Volunteers on board the steamer Picket to Nag's Head, 
and this morning landed at the wharf opposite to where the 
hotel formerly stood. I learned that General Wise left there 
about an hour and a half before sundown last Saturday, taking 
with him about three hundred and fifty men belonging to the 
" Wise Legion." . . Wise, in order to carry out the plans of 
the vandals and ruflBans, (the tribe to which he belongs,) burned 
the hotel and several of the residences, destroying a large amount 
of property but little use to any one. 

Very respectfully yours. 

Rush C. Hawkins, 
Colonel Ninth New-York Volunteers. 

The members of Companies B and H were treated 
with great kindness by Captain Ives and the other 
officers of the Picket, and after receiving their coffee 
and crackers, sang with as much glee as though they 
were snugly at home, although at the time it rained 
and snowed furiously. The boat was crowded, but 
they all disposed of themselves for the night, as sol- 
diers will. One sergeant slept astraddle of the en- 
gine-shaft, and many others disposed of themselves in 
equally uncouth positions. 



84: THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

After the reconnoissance had accomplished all that 
was necessary, the steamer retm-ned, and Companies 
B and H went to their respective quarters. 

The re2:iment was now allowed a little time to en- 
joy the honor it had won, and did it by a studious 
endeavor to so improve themselves that any future 
occasion would find them qualified as well as willing 
for the performance of their duty. But they were 
shortly again destined to be moved toward the 
enemy. 

It was rumored among the fleet, that, at a town 
called "Winton, far up the Chowan river, there were 
about four hundred loyal I^orth-Carolinians ready to 
join om' forces, and very desirous of doing so, if they 
were only assured that their services would be accept- 
ed, and that they would receive the essential protec- 
tion and means of transportation within the Union 
lines. It was generally thought that the rumor had a 
truthful foundation, for it was largely known among 
the intelligent soldiers that there were a great many 
true Union men in the State sufiering bitterly from, 
the tyranny and brutality of the vigilance and con- 
scripting committees that infested the country ; and 
every efibrt to rescue these men from the rebel army, 
and thereby weaken it, would be hailed with joyous 
approval by the soldiers. 

Almost immediately following this rumor, upon 
the 16th day of February, an order came from Brig.- 
General Parke to Colonel Hawkins, commanding him 
to be ready to move his regiment at an hour's notice, 
and to confer with Commodore Rowan, United States 
Navy, commanding ISTaval Division, (steamer Dela- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 85 

ware,) etc., etc. The arrangements for a new move- 
ment had been completed, and the "IN^inth" was 
transferred to the gunboats preparatory to moving. 
The expedition was composed of the flag-ship Dela- 
ware, Com. Barney, Com. Perry, Hunchback, Morse, 
Ceres, and Lockwood, carrying in all thirty-three 
guns, under the command of Commodore Stephen C. 
Eowan, and the land forces under command of Colo- 
nel Hawkins. At 12 m. on the 18th, the whole fleet 
got under way for the mouth of the Chowan river. 

While proceeding up the Albemarle Sound the 
Hunchback struck a sand-bar in shallow water, upon 
which she resolved to take a brief rest. Her engines 
were plied to no effect, seeing which the captain de- 
termined upon a novel mode of extricating his vessel. 
The upper deck of the Hunchback being very high, 
several companies were placed upon it and arranged 
along its starboard side. At the word "port" from 
the captain, they all rushed across the deck to the 
port side, and again upon the word "starboard," 
rushed back ; and so to and fro they rocked the 
steamer, her engines working with full force the 
while, until after many repeated efforts she was 
. finally moved from the sand-bed; and overtaking 
the expedition which had proceeded ahead, anchored 
with it that night. 

The fleet got under way once more about 10 a.m. the 
following day, and with considerable sj)eed steamed 
up the Chowan river. The soldiers observed the 
peculiar color of the water, which about Edenton 
and above had a light salmon tint, inclining to an 
impure pink. Toward the latter part of the after- 
5 



86 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES I 

noon of the 19th, and when but a short distance from 
the town of Winton, heavy firing was heard in ad- 
vance of the main portion of the expedition, as of 
shots being exchanged, and not long after the flag- 
boat Delaware came running down the stream with 
nnusnal speed, closely followed by the Commodore 
Perry, and the whole fleet turned about and proceed- 
ed in her wake until eight or ten miles below, when 
all came to anchor where the river had materially 
widened. 

Up to this time the troops had not learned the 
purpose of the expedition, but upon the morning of 
the 20th, it was not further concealed from them. 
The men were provided with small packages of oak- 
um and kindling-wood, and it was then ascertained 
that they were to burn the bridges of the Roanoke 
and Seaboard Eailroad across the ^N'ottoway and 
Blackwater rivers. 

The fleet started again up the Chowan, and upon 
arriving at Winton, the town and woods in the vicin- 
ity were shelled briskly for about twenty minutes, 
after which the troops landed, and failing to discover 
the enemy, but obtaining evidence of very recent 
occupation, and that the place was being used as a 
military post, it was fired and then left. 

It having been erroneously circulated by many per- 
sons, whose apparent object was to injure the reputa- 
tion of a body of men, who, in point of discipline 
and morality acknowledged no rival, that the burning 
of Winton was a piece of vandalism too horrible to 
associate with the honorable purposes of the war, we 
deem it proper to lay the fact before the reader, in 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 87 

justice to the memory of those who have since fallen 
in defense of their country, and out of respect to the 
affliction of those who still mourn their loss, and to 
refute the calumnious assertion. Below we give the 
official report of Colonel Hawkins, from which all 
may readily perceive that the burning of Winton was 
justifiable, necessary, and of manifest service to the 
country ; and that it was done upon proper author- 
ity ; was accomplished in order ; and that the only 
piece of vandalism connected with the event was the 
loss of some few geese, and several boxes of tobacco. 
Upon the 21st, the fleet again anchored in its 
old position in Croatan Sound, off Roanoke Island, 
and Colonel Hawkins immediately sent his report to 
the Commanding General : 

Steamer Virginia, Roanoke Island, N. C, 
February 21, 1862. 

Brig. -General J. G. Parke: 

General : In accordance with your orders of the 16th instant, 
I called upon Commodore Rowan, and made arrangements to 
embark my regiment on board some of the gunboats of his divi- 
sion, for the purpose of proceeding up the Blackwater and Not- 
toway rivers, and destroying the bridges over them of the Ro- 
anoke and Seaboard Railroad. 

At twelve o'clock m. of the 18th instant, the regiment was 
embarked, and the expedition got under way, and that night 
anchored off the mouth of the Roanoke river, where it remained 
until ten a.m. of the following day, and then commenced its 
advance up the Chowan river. Nothing of importance occurred 
till about half past three o'clock p.m., the flag-steamer Delaware 
being one mile ahead of any of the other boats. I was on the 
cross-trees of the mainmast, where I had been on the lookout 
for about two hours, and the steamer was within three hundred 



88 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

and fifty yards of the wharf at Winton, when I discovered that 
the high bank we were rapidly approaching was covered with 
Confederate soldiers. I immediately gave the alarm, but not in 
time to change the course of the boat until she had got within 
one hundred yards of the shore, when we received the fire of 
seven hundred infantry, or more, which continued until we 
had passed up the river out of range ; when we turned about 
and began shelling the town, the enemy returning the fire with 
four pieces of field artillery from the shore. In the mean time 
the gunboat Perry, having come within range, opened upon the 
rebels from below. Soon after the enemy was dislodged, and 
retired, when the Delaware returned down the river, receiving 
four shots as she passed the wharf. The whole fleet came to 
anchor about seven miles below Winton. A consultation was 
held, and it was then agreed to advance again next morning and 
burn the town, if found occupied by the enemy. 

About half past-eleven o'clock a.m. of the 20th instant, our 
gunboats arrived at and took their positions, some above, some 
opposite, and others below the town, when the guns commenced 
firing, giving the place an effective shelling, and in about twenty 
minutes my regiment landed, accompanied by three boat-guns 
under the command of Lieutenant Flusser, of the Commodore 
Perry. The guns were placed in position so as to command the 
approaches to the town, and the regiment was drawn up in line 
awaiting the attack of the enemy. In the mean time parties of 
observation and scouts were sent out in all directions. It was 
soon ascertained that the rebels had retreated as soon as our 
forces came in sight that morning, leaving every thing behind, 
excepting arms and accoutrements. Six companies of my regi- 
ment took possession of the main approach to the town, and I 
commenced making a personal inspection of all the buildings. I 
found that nearly the whole had been taken possession of and 
occupied by the confederate troops as quarters and store-houses. 
I then ordered that every building containing stores for the ene- 
my or used by them as quarters should be fired, and placed 
guards in the others to see that they were not disturbed or de- , 
stroyed. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 89 

The property consumed belonging to the confederate forces 
consisted of bacon, corn, meal, sugar, powder, mess-pans, camp- 
kettles, haversacks, canteens, etc., etc., the whole worth not less 
than $10,000. 

This, I believe, is the first instance during the war where on 
our side fire had accompanied the sword. It is to be regretted 
that such severe measures have to be resorted to ; they can only 
be justified on the grounds, 

First. Betaliation^ for trying to decoy us in a trap at" the time 
of firing into the Delaware. Evidence of this is, that a negress, 
the property of one of the confederate officers, was sent down 
to the wharf by her master to beckon us into the landing, 
when we were all to be slaughtered, or in the words of the 
negress, "Dey said dat dey want gwine to let any body lib at all, 
but was gwine to kill ebery one ob 'em." We were to have 
received no quarter. 

Second. The luildings fired, had been used by the rebel forces 
as store-houses and quarters. 

From information obtained at Winton, we came to the conclu- 
sion that it would be impossible to accomplish the original object 
and aim of the expedition, so it had to be abandoned. 

The forces at Winton, as near as I could ascertain, consisted 
of six companies of the First Battalion North-Carolina Volun- 
teers under command of Lieut.-Colonel William T. Williams, 
one battery of light artillery, one company of the Southampton 
cavalry, and one or two companies of the North- Carolina militia; 
the whole under the charge of Lieut.-Colonel Williams. 

I am happy to inform you that none of our forces were injured. 
The enemy sustained some considerable loss from the fire of our 
gunboats on the 19th, but I am not able to state how many were 
either killed or wounded. 

The troops under my command and the officers and sailors of 
the gunboats behaved exceedingly well, and performed all of 
their various duties with promptness and alacrity. 

I feel greatly indebted to Commodore S. C. Rowan and the 
Lieutenants in command of the gunboats for their attention to 



90 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES:" 

the wants and comforts of my regiment, and also for their hearty 
cooperation in trying to carry out the object of the expedition. 
I am most faithfully your obedient servant, 

Rush C. Hawkins, 
Colonel Ninth New- York Volunteers. 



TJTEIR BATTLES AND MAKCHES. 91 



Part Sixth : 

BoanoJ^e to ^amden. 

THE expedition for I^ew-Berne was now getting 
ready, and it was the anticipation of the Zouaves 
to accompany it ; but when the order came for them 
to debark and take up their quarters upon the island, 
they gave over all hope of being participants in it, 
and resolved to resign themselves calmly to inactivity 
for a short time, no matter where, if it was consistent 
with the promotion of the cause. iTpon the 5th day 
of March they landed and took possession of the large 
and commodious barracks which the rebels had con- 
structed that they might remain in them comfortably 
through the winter. In fact, the general appearance 
of the fortifications and camps occupied by the rebels 
bore indications of their intention to prolong their 
stay upon the island ; but the " cruel Yankees " 
wrested from them all that they had labored so hard 
to establish and construct, and interfered with their 
delusive dreams of camj) enjoyment. Incidents of 
the same peculiar nature have marvelously succeeded 
eaclij other throughout the war. 

The " Ninth " appreciated the efforts of the rebels 
to provide them suitable apartments in which to rest 
themselves after the exertion of driving the enemy 



92 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

out. A thorougli renovation was given to every tiling 
about camp, and, as usual, many temporary conveni- 
ences were erected immediately, which proves that 
the soldiers have become adepts in the art of accom- 
modating themselves to circumstances. Upon the Yth 
day of March the JSTew-Berne expedition sailed, and 
on the same day Colonel Hawkins assumed command 
of the Fourth brigade and post, and the command of 
the " ISTinth " devolved upon Captain Jardine, who a 
few days after received the well-merited promotion 
of Major, and was at the time the recipient of a good 
serviceable sword, sash and belt, from his late com- 
pany, G-. 

On the 16th of the same month, the regiment was 
presented with a new color by the Common Council 
of the city of Kew-York. 

Lieut. -Colonel* Kimball returned from his leave of 
absence on the 24th, having received the new commis- 
sion during his absence. He was welcomed back as 
an old comrade, with nine rousing cheers, and then a 
more cordial and intimate greeting followed. 

Companies H and I, under the command of Major 
Jardine, on the Tth of April, marched down to Pork 
Point, and in connection with six companies of the 
Sixth ]^ew-Hampshire Volunteers, the whole under 
the charge of Lieut.-Colonel Griffin of the Sixth 
ISfew-Hampshire Yolunteers, went aboard the gun- 
boats, which immediately steamed across the Albe- 
marle, and up the Pasquotank river to Elizabeth ,City, 
where the two com]3anies of the " Ninth " landed at 
four o'clock A.M. of the 8th, while four companies of 
the New-Hampshire Yolunteers did the same six 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 93 

miles above the city, in order to surprise, and if pos- 
sible capture a body of rebels known to be there. 

Colonel Hawkins's official report says : " They sur- 
prised two companies of the rebel l^orth-Carolina 
militia, who fled in the utmost confusion, casting away 
their arms and taking to the woods. Our forces close- 
ly pursued them, and succeeded in capturing seventy- 
three of the enemy, belonging to the First Brigade, 
l^.C.M., who are now here in custody awaiting your 
orders. A quantity of munitions were taken. Our 
forces killed a noted rebel scout by the name of Tim 
Gregory, and wounded a vidette — the only known 
loss in men upon either side." 

The prisoners were brought to Camp Reno, and 
guarded by the " Ninth." As described by a diary, 
-"they were indeed a motley set ; some had straw 
hats, others felt of nearly every color; many had 
gray coats, some black ones, others brown, one none 
at all ; the other articles of dress conformed to the 
same variety. A little white-haired corporal, (the 
highest rank among them,) about fourteen years old, 
was the only one who could write his own name. I 
was Sergeant of the Guard over them, and allowed 
them to come out to the line that they might see a 
dress-parade worth looking at. They were very much 
pleased, and said they really believed it was of no 
use lighting against men like those." They all took 
the oath of allegiance, and were sent back to provide 
for their starving families. '' Mistaken humanity !" 

It was evident that'the rebel authorities anticij)ated 
some demonstration by the Union forces in the rear 
of Norfolk after the loss to their arms of E-oanoke and 
6* 



94 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

vicinity ; for they began building batteries along the 
canal leading to that place, and had already stationed 
a force of men at a place called South-Mills, where a 
bridge crossed on the road to l^orfolk. Colonel Haw- 
kins writes General Burnside, under date of April 
irth: 

" My command has been ready since Tuesday afternoon. Yes- 
terday I was at Elizabeth City. I think we can land east side 
of the river, march up to the lock, finish the work of the canal, 
then come down the west side of the river and take the rebels in 
the rear. While one party is destroying the lock, another could 
amuse the enemy on the west side at or below the city, and an- 
other can attack them in the rear. The force on the east side 
should land about midnight, so as to be well at their work by 
daylight. We could then finish the job, and be upon the enemy 
by one o'clock p.m. I am satisfied that it is not practicable to 
land at the other canal. After we are debarked, our operations 
should be pushed with the utmost dispatch, Norfolk being only 
four hours distant. I have not heard any more about the forces 
since the Delaware left, but think there are about three thou- 
sand, with eight or ten pieces of artillery." 

General Orders 'No. 12 commands the colonel of 
each regiment to hold his force in readiness with fifty 
rounds ammunition, three days rations, axes and shov- 
els. One section orders : 

" The duty which this force is now called upon to endure be- 
ing dangerous and difficult, and it having a very long and ar- 
duous march to perform, none but men capable of undergoing 
the greatest fatigue will be allowed to accompany it. 

" Commanding officers are especially enjoined to see that this 
part of the order is strictly enforced." 

On the 18th day of April the '' JSTinth " left Camp 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 95 

Reno and niarclied down to Fort Bartow on Pis; 
Point, being equipped in light marching order, but 
still carrying rather a heavy load, and went aboard 
the steamer Ocean Wave, lying at the long dock, 
being obliged to close en tnasse^ that all might get on. 
Five other regiments were already embarked on the 
transports anchored there; and then it was conject- 
m^ed the expedition might be a formidable one. Col- 
onel Hawkins was on the wharf directing the em- 
barkation, and as he was without his sword, murmurs 
ran through the regiment that he was not going ; and 
the men appeared quite dissatisfied at the idea, for 
they could not bear the thought of going into action 
without him ; but when Lieut.-Colonel Kimball as- 
sured tliem that their Colonel would certainly go, they 
once more assumed that cheerfulness they were so 
accustomed to when about to start upon any hazard- 
ous undertaking. 

At about one o'clock p.m., the steamer cast loose 
and put about, heading for Albemarle Sound ; at the 
same time the band of the " Mnth " burst forth with 
the " Star-Spangled Banner " and ". Yankee Doodle." 
All appeared in the most jubilant spirits. It was a 
beautiful day, and the sun came down very warm, 
just sufficiently to neutralize the chill from the water. 
The Virginia took the advance, and when within 
about ten miles of Elizabeth City dropped her anchor. 
The Ocean "Wave followed next, and just about dark 
lay to near the Yirginia, in the mouth of the Pasquo- 
tank river. Not long after could be seen the lights 
of the other boats fast approaching. About eleven 
o'clock P.M. they all started ahead again, and prepara- 



96 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

tions were now made for landing at a place called 
Shantilly. This was first effected bj the " 'Nmth " 
rowing in small boats as near the shore as advisable, 
and then plunging into the water up to their waists, 
waded the rest of the way. Upon reaching the shore, 
a high bank loomed np in the darkness before them. 
Some gained the ascent by jnmj^ing upon the shoul- 
ders of the others, and these in turn dragged up those 
below. An informant says he was pulled up near 
the last, and the bank being very wet and slippery, 
he was ^' coated " by its mud from collar to boots. 
Two videttes posted in the point of woods on the left, 
fled at the approach of the Zouaves. Line-of-battle 
was formed as soon as possible, and the house of Silas 
Gregory was surrounded and taken possession pf, that 
none might escape from it to the enemy. 

The Sixth l^ew-Hampshire Yolunteers landed next, 
and were soon followed by the Eighty-ninth New- 
York Yolunteers. 

At a quarter past three o'clock a.m., the line of 
march was taken up, the "Ninth" having the ad- 
vance, with Company B on the right of the line. As 
they were passing through a dark Avood, the advance- 
guard fired upon the rebel pickets, and, without in- 
vestigating the mischief inflicted, passed on. They 
soon emerged into an open field, where the bright 
moonlight sparkled upon the stream of polished bayo- 
nets, as it sometimes dances upon the water. It was 
sufficient to stir the heart with rapture and swell it 
with proud sentiment to behold these men silently 
but bravely setting their feet forward into the ene- 
my's very lines, where tlie foe was known to be some- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 97 

what numerous, and momentarily expected to dash 
upon them at the approach of every spot of ground 
favorable for the purpose of ambush. 

A brief rest was taken at daybreak, at which time 
a member of Company H was accidentally shot over 
the eye. He refused to be conducted back, but, tying 
up the wound, started on the way again with his com- 
pany. 

A negro guide, furnished by the navy, led the way, 
and throughout the day was strongly suspected of 
leading the brigade in the wrong direction, but was 
plainly told that he would be shot if he proved 
treacherous. 

After the column had passed the village of Shiloh 
on the right, heavy firing was heard on the left, which 
proceeded from the gunboats, which had passed up 
the canal to prevent any more of the enemy from 
crossing the bridge. 

It was now the object to get the column up to 
South-Mills and defeat the rebels before they should 
have time to receive reenforcements from J^orfolk, or 
construct works of defense ; and the men now pushed 
forward more rapidly ; and as the sun poured down 
hotly, and the roads were very dusty, the " arduous 
task " mentioned at the outset was being intensely 
felt by the men. 

During the forenoon another brief rest was allow- 
ed, and the hot water was poured from the canteens, 
which were as^ain filled with some cool and refresh- 
ing ; then a slim repast of meat and hard bread was 
eaten. 



9i THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Of an incident by the way, after again starting, a 
correspondent writes : 

" At length we came near a fine plantation, and our guide in- 
formed us that a rebel militia captain lived there ; so Lieut. -Colonel 
Kimball ordered Lieut. Barnett to take three groups ofif the right 
and go in and arrest him. As they entered the gate, a lady 
standing on the piazza began to scream wildly, and when they 
weht in the house, and the Lieutenant laid his hand on the rebel, 
and said he and another man present were prisoners of war, she 
changed color and seemed so frightened that she surely must 
have thought we were about to devour them all. But they were 
assured no harm would be done them. The screaming brought 
Colonel Hawkins quickly to the spot, who after inquiring into 
the affair to his satisfaction, let the two men go back to the 
house, at which the woman was rejoiced. * 

"We had not proceeded far, when, turning the next corner, 
we saw a horseman galloping with speed toward us. He was a 
young man, dressed in a greenish-yellow suit, rather seedy, and 
appeared to be a Southern gentleman. Colonel Hawkins made 
him dismount and give his horse to Major Jardine, and then ac- 
cused him of conniving treacherously with the enemy. He could 
hardly stammer out a false denial. He was obliged to ' right 
about,' and go as a guide to our brigade, which he did rather re- 
luctantly, being forced all the way out and back. He acknow- 
ledged that he was one of the videttes in the wood by Gregory's 
when we landed. All felt like hanging him on the spot, but 
secondly reflected that it might be ' unconstitutional,' so we 
were all bound to respect the traitor." 

At about noonday the Fourth brigade met General 
Reno's column of the Twenty-first Massachusetts and 
Fifty-first Pennsylvania Yolunteers, and after waiting 
a few minutes for them, all started ahead again. Gen- 
eral Reno's brigade in advance, with a detachment 
of two field-pieces from Company K, JSTinth I^Tew- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 99 

York Yolunteers. At tliis point many of the " Ninth," 
experiencing great weariness and exhaustion, that 
would have broken any spirit upon a less eventful 
occasion, exhibited an inclination to rest beyond the 
time allotted for halting, by their indifference to 
keep up with the comrades they had marched so far 
with; but as they evinced their weariness rather 
by losing a little distance with each weary step 
than by any sly endeavor to straggle in the rear, they 
were urged forward in the name of the " Ninth " and 
the Union by those at their elbows. As they pro- 
ceeded further the shameful example of straggling dis- 
played by other regiments gave them the spirit to 
reprove what they saw rather than any desire to par- 
ticipate in what they considered so unsold! erly. But 
still their feet seemed to get heavier and heavier at 
each step, and only the hope of a speedy halt stimu- 
lated them to renewed exertion. Some of the sol- 
diers, who had marched only half the distance the 
" Ninth " had, lay down as if incapable of further ex- 
ertion, and as exhaustion took possession of their 
weakened citadel they surrendered themselves to 
sleep, and perhaps to scouting bands of the enemy. 
At length it was said we had discovered the enemy 
in position, waiting for us. The column was again 
halted to rest. The Fifty-first Pennsylvania Yol- 
unteers, Twenty-first Massachusetts, and Company 
K's artillery were ordered ahead. In a short time 
the first gun sounded ominously through the woods 
where the " Ninth " lay — many asleep, otliers unheed- 
ing the sound. Colonel Hawkins had walked all the 
way, and for a moment stood contemplating the ex- 



100 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

haustion of liis regiment, and his own weariness sym- 
patliized with that of the men, Lieut.-Colonel Kim- 
ball, Avho had ridden the most of the way and was 
sorely chafed, sat upon the bank by the road-side, 
almost shedding tears at the thought of " giving out " 
when a battle was coming on, in addition to the fa- 
tigue already called for by a march of over thirty-two 
miles. 

ComjDany K, together with Colonel Howard's ma- 
rine artillery, was now shelling the enemy, who replied 
rapidly. The marine Colonel was standing on one 
side a little in advance of K's guns, viewing the ene- 
my with a glass, when he was informed that the strip - 
pings from the shell might make his position danger- 
ous; and he turned slowly about, poising his glass, 
and said ; " I guess not — never knew the strippings 
to kill any body ; did you ? " 

Captain Keno galloped from the front to where the 
"JSTinth" lay, immediately followed by the General, 
who eagerly inquired of Colonel Hawkins how his 
" Red-caps " were. He replied that they were scarcely 
able to lift their feet. The General said it must be so, 
they had marched so far; but the enemy were just 
down there in the wood below, and it would not take 
a great deal to whip them. You may take the little 
Zouaves to the right and outflank them. 

The artillery on both sides was now briskly en- 
gaged, and the order to "forward" was once more 
given. Until this moment, when they began to rouse 
themselves, the "Mnth" did not realize their utter 
prostration. The line staggered upon its feet, look- 
ing like the struggle of some great serpent in agony, 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 101 

and forward again it began to wind upon the advance. 
A sliort distance further ahead they turned off the 
main road and were led to the right through the edge 
of the wood that bordered on the cleared space in 
front. Having arrived as near the enemy as prac- 
ticable v^ithout discovering the position thus attained, 
the line was again halted. Lieut.-Colonel Kimball 
rode further to the right on the advance, and after a 
little inspection of the situation, returned, the enemy's 
shot sounding plump, plump, round about. "J^oth- 
ing but solid shot, boys," said he ; " we don't care for 
that." 

One who is well informed of this stage of the pro- 
ceedings, says : " Colonel Hawkins now went forward 
to the right, out in the clearing, and took a calm view 
of the situation of affairs. He saw the road running 
down to the enemy's lodgment covered with rails, 
thrown crosswise, several feet deep, up to which Com- 
pany K with their artillery had advanced and were 
blazing away. The marine artillery was directly in 
front, the open space between which and the enemy 
was about three fourths of a mile, and the fences 
crossing these lots, together with a farm-house, had 
been fired to conceal the foe. To the right the wood 
was very umbrageous, with a swampy bottom, which 
rendered it almost impassable. The Colonel was not 
long in concluding upon the only course by which the 
enemy could be routed. Keturning to the regiment, 
every man now lying down to rest himself, he told 
them how far off the rebels were, and said : "I think 
if you can walk one half of a mile and run a quar- 
ter, we can take the battery : will you do it ? " 



102 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

'' We will try," said they ; '' we will do any thing 
you say." 

It is astonishing, under the circumstances, that any 
should have said what they were w^illing to do. The 
tears came to the eyes of the Colonel as he viewed 
the long line of heroes ready for the daring act. 
" Well, boys," said he, "I can't order you to go." It 
was enough: slowly the long line of "Red-caps" 
stirred and arose irregularly as if assisting each other 
to rise, and every man that could muster sufficient 
strength got upon his feet, clutched his musket, and 
prepared to follow the Colonel, who was now leading 
the way. So exhausted, and yet with such determin- 
ation, they resolved to go wherever he should take 
them. The solid shot now began to fall " sensibly 
near," and it was evident the rebels had seen the 
" Red-caps," for they were getting close range upon 
them. 

The fence was thrown down, the ditch was quickly 
passed, and the " ]N^inth" was now out in the clearing, 
steadily advancing down the gentle slope. The artil- 
lery on both sides ceased as they moved slowly for- 
ward ; and a silence now prevailed, as though the 
fields had suddenly been transformed into a grave- 
yard. One after another of the burning fences and the 
last had been left behind, and still the deep silence 
was preserved, and there was heard only the rushing 
noise of many footsteps over the soft and yielding 
ground, that seemed like the hard breathing of the 
regiment as it touched the ear. The half-mile had 
been passed over; and now, as the order w^as blown on 
the bugle, "double-quick — charge bayonets!" a faint 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 103 

effort to put forth the battle-cry, ''Zoo-zoo-zoo ! " was 
made, but it died away with a sickening sound, and 
was superseded by a rapid discharge of grape and can- 
ister from the enemy's battery of six pieces, together 
with the concentrated fire of their united force of 
infantry. The style of fighting practiced by the 
"Ninth" seemed to be well known to them, for when 
the Zouaves fell upon their faces to avoid the whist- 
ling hail, they directed their fire lower, wdiich caused 
it to ricochet upon the plowed ground, cutting into 
the ranks of the attacking force like a scythe into 
grass. 

The fire of the rebels was now so severe that the 
regiment began to stagger. A sergeant, who was the 
first man on the right, gives some very interesting par- 
ticulars of this part of the engagement. 

" Up to this time not a man had fired his musket from our 
ranks ; our business was to give them the cold steel ; but I thought 
about then we were getting the hot grape instead, which made 
the red wine run pretty freely. I was so very tired I could 
scarce lift my feet, and had not the enemy's shot spurred me up 
I should have fallen on the spot. But I resolved to keep up till 
they knocked me down. Many prostrated themselves to get rid 
of the canister ; but when I saw one of our company do so and 
get shot in the head, I thought it best to stand up. Lieutenant 
Barnett and I staggered against a small apple-tree. 'Lieutenant,' 
said I, ' I don't believe I can go another step.' ' This is tough,' 
he replied. Just then there came a zip-zip and a thud-thud into 
the tree. We changed our base immediately, and stepped for- 
ward slowly toward the enemy. The regiment staggered again, 
and now began to fire at the rebels. Colonel Hawkins fell 
wounded in the left arm, Lieut.-Colonel Kimball had his horse 
shot under him, and sat upon the ground almost unable to move. 
Adjutant Gadsden was killed by a grape in the thigh, and Lieuten- 



104: THE HAWKINS ZOUAYES : 

ant McKecknie was rushing forward, wildly waving his sword, 
and shouting for the men to advance, when at this instant the 
order was given to 'make way to the right and get cover in the 
woods,' which was gallantly done, the regiment not losing an 
inch of the ground they had gained. I had fired my piece, and 
while proceeding to execute the order, thought I must reload at 
the same time, which I did after some diflSiculty, dragging the 
butt of the musket on the ground. I reached the fence by the 
wood with the ramrod rattling in my gun, and climbed it ; two 
rails broke and let me down upon the Major of the Twenty-first 
Massachusetts, who wondered where I came from." 

General Heno was standing behind Company K's 
pieces. That excellent soldier shed tears as he lament- 
ingly murmured, " They are getting cut up badly ; 
it is too bad." 

Several of the regiments were now ordered forward 
to make a combined charge upon the rebels. The 
"Ninth" was among them. But the enemy had 
already began to slacken lire, and it was apparent 
that they were contemplating a hasty retreat. Could 
the Zouaves have held their position and advanced a 
few yards further, there is no question that they Avould 
have completely routed the rebels and captured their 
guns. As it was, the enemy now fled in confusion, 
with their flying artillery, upon the approach of this 
new assaulting column. 

A few moments more, and the Union forces re- 
mained sole possessors of the battle-field, and were 
burying their dead. 

Upon the approach of the " Mnth," after the enemy 
had been discovered. Corporal Spooner, of Company 
B, had a great desire to smoke his pipe, but at the mo- 
ment distinctly recollected that he left it on the man- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 105 

tel in the corporal's quarters at the barracks. During 
the battle he was struck in the thigh by a bullet, and 
he immediately crawled to a ditch, where he proceeded 
to examine into the nature of his wound, and to his 
amazement found that the ball had taken lodgment 
in his pocket, where he also found pieces of the pipe 
he had wished for so much. The ball must have enter- 
ed the bowl of the pipe directly, as it was completely 
smashed, leaving only the bottom portion attached to 
the stem. The presence of the pipe undoubtedly saved 
his life, for on the statement of the surgeon,* his 
wound would have been similar to the one received 
by the brave and lamented Gadsden. f 

Pickets were immediately established, and the 
" Ninth " had some little hope of obtaining a trifle of 
that rest they so much needed ; but this was not to 
be ; employment beckoned their services in every 
direction. A gentle rain began to fall, which con- 
tributed much refreshment that could not be derived 
from any other source. They were within four hours' 
communication with ISTorfolk, and if they should re- 
main at South-Mills another battle still more severe 
was before them, and perhaps the surrender of all. 

Accordingly about nine o'clock p.m., the order to 
march was given, and the direction taken at once 
assured all that they were to return to the transports 
that night. Some of the wounded who were unable 
to ride in the army-wagons were left behind under 
charge of a surgeon. Chaplain Conway also remained 

* Note G in Appendix, 
f Note H in Appendix. 



106 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

to care for the wounded ; and liis attentive services 
relieved miicli suffering, and added another evidence 
of his kindly nature and sympathy to that he had 
exhibited on other occasions. 

Imagination must lend its powers in order to con- 
ceive the severity of the return march on that black 
and stormy night. About ten o'clock the rain poured 
in torrents upon the heads of the men. Frequently 
they would stumble in the darkness, the slippery 
nature of the soil rendering it impossible to keep sure 
footing. When the command would be given to halt 
a moment for rest, the troops would drop suddenly 
upon the roadside in the mud or water, according to 
the condition of the ground they were treading upon 
at the time. But they must reach the bridge before 
the enemy should destroy it, and for this purpose 
they toiled on mechanically. Just before dawn the 
bridge was crossed by the " Mnth," to whom it was 
given to destroy the same after the troops had passed 
it, to wait for stragglers and bring them in, and to 
perform the unpleasant task of urging on at the point 
of the bayonet the prisoners captured, who were 
ready to drop from exhaustion at every step. They 
could not credit the fact that the Zouaves had 
marched double the distance they had and still re- 
tained so much more of vitality. 

Shortly after daylight they reached Shantilly, and 
embarked once more on board the Ocean "Wave. 

The negro guide, who had so treacherously led the 
brigade of Colonel Hawkins in the wrong direction, 
was executed in the wood. It was afterward ascer- 
tained that he had been sent to us by the enemy for 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 107 

the purpose of leading our troops into a trap the 
rebels had prepared. But the sagacity of the com- 
mander prevented such a disaster. 

We subtract a portion of the official report of the 
affair sent in to the Commanding General by Colonel 
Hawkins : 

" It is seldom if ever that men have been called upon to perform 
so much in so short a thne as those were who composed the 
fourth brigade under my command — marching forty -six miles 
and fighting a lattle, all in ticenty-six hours! You will admit 
that it was no small undertaking ; and yet this was done with- 
out a murmur or complaint. 

" Soon after the troops had returned to Roanoke Island, Chap- 
lain Conway* arrived, bringing with him about fifty stragglers 
of different regiments, and some of the wounded of the Ninth 
New-York Volunteers, who were left behind on the field of battle. 

"In this enterprise the Commanding General has received an- 
other evidence of the courage, enterprise, and fortitude of the 
troops under his command. Although the results may seem 
disastrous on account of the loss of life, still the reconnoissance 
can not fail to be of great value to him when connected with 
future operations. 

In the charge of the Ninth New- York Volunteers, that regi- 
ment lost nine killed and sixty wounded. Among the former 
was Lieutenant Charles A. Gadsden, Adjutant, who fell while 
gallantly cheering on the men at the head of the regiment. He 
was a kind, considerate gentleman, and a most excellent soldier 
and died greatly lamented by all of his companions." 

The regiment arriv^ed at the long wharf on Roa 
* Note I in Appendix. 



108 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

noke Island about five p.m. of the 20tli of April, and 
marched up to Camp Keno that evening. 

As a testimony of the severity of the toils in the 
late expedition, it is only necessary to add that the 
men were so sadly used up that respite from all drill 
for one week was granted them, at the end of which 
time they were comfortably ready for another call. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 109 



Part Seventh : 

Boano)^e to lotjfolh an4 lewpo^iis ^^ew$. 

SHORTLY after, a reading-room and post-office for 
tlie "Ninth" were opened, and reading matter of 
every description came pouring in from all directions. 
It proved to be of great advantage to the men, and 
they might be seen there at all hom^s between drill 
ponring over the books and papers in deep study and 
enchanting recreation, or writing their letters, or fill- 
*ing out diaries. The avidity with which they seized 
upon this new source of pastime and improvement 
was very gratifying to those who had furnished the 
means. 

A debating club was immediately established, and 
regular evenings out of each week allotted for con- 
troversy. Many subjects of enticing interest were 
discussed, the Chaplain usually taking some strong 
position. 

Several base ball clubs were organized throughout 
the regiment, and exciting contests took place between 
them every Saturday; and as the "jN^inth" boasted 
many excellent players, it may be supposed that these 
clubs were no mean feature among the many sports 
engaged in by the men and officers. 

Some of the companies also erected gymnastic 
6 



110 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

apparatus, flying-rings, cloud-swings, horizontal and 
parallel bars, trapezes, etc., and the excellent skill of 
many was exhibited on them, and acrobatic perform- 
ances induged in, together wdth sparring and wrest- 
ling, and all the category of amusements resorted to, 
as the different ideas of recreation called for them. 

Amusements seemed now to be the prevalent order of 
the time, and we know of no successive occasions where 
the talent that composed the Ninth Eegiment of I^ew- 
York Volunteers was so finely displayed as in the 
management of " The Zouave Minstrel and Dramatic 
Club," which, having been under formation for some 
time, now opened and gave public entertainments 
to happy audiences, that so overcrowded the building 
appropriated for the object, that another and larger 
one, capable of holding over five hundred people, was 
substituted by the kind permission of the Colonel. 
Artists of considerable reputation painted the scenery ; 
carpenters of experience constructed with toil their 
portion of their work ; the mechanical aj)pointments 
were erected by those who had followed the business ; 
the stage-manager was formerly from a Broadway 
house, where he was conductor of a su^^erior arrange- 
ment of the same kind ; dresses were properly selected 
by those who understood that portion of the parapher- 
nalia ; professional actors " graced the stage," and the 
ablest critics manifested their approbation of the man- 
ner in which " Box and Cox " and the novel and hu- 
morous burlesque of " Richard III." were produced, 
together with the caricaturing of the acrobatic "Han- 
Ions," etc. The minstrel band, composed of tliQ usual 
burnt-cork talent found in that capacity, acquitted 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. Ill 

themselves most excellently. Johnson's " Lord Lov- 
el " and " Billy -Barlow " will be remembered for 
many years by all who heard them on Roanoke 
Island. So great was the success of the club that all 
who sought admission could not be accommodated, 
many turning away disappointed, marching back 
many miles to camp. 

The natives of the island were not only pleased but 
incredulously astonished at the performances. The 
intellectual faculties of the inhabitants are only pos- 
sessed in that degree just sufficient to display a portion 
of their ignorance, it usually requiring some develojJ- 
ment to exhibit all. Few of the Koanokers knew 
what a theatre was, and scarcely any of them had 
ever seen a play ; to instance which, we make men- 
tion of an incident where an elderly female was asked 
how she liked the performance she saw last evening ; 
the reply was that " she did not know, because she 
had never seen any thing of the kind before ; but all 
the while the play was going on it was as much as 
she could do to keep from laughing at the nigger 
minstrels." 

The object of the association was not merely for 
the entertainment and amusement of the regiment, 
but for the nobler purpose of establishing a fund for 
the relief of the wounded members of the "ISTinth;" 
and how well it succeeded many of them who have 
received quite an acceptable sum of-the proceeds can 
testify. 

About this time religious services of a very inter- 
esting character were held in the reading-room ; dis- 
courses by the Chaplain. 



112 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

In the fore part of May Colonel Hawkins learned 
that the rebels had a large amount of stores, consist- 
ing of bacon, corn, salt, flour, etc., stored near Gates- 
yille, and he determined to send a small expedition 
to destroy the same. Accordingly on the Yth of May 
he ordered Captain Parisen to take his company, C, 
on board the gunboat Shawsheen, and proceed to exe- 
cute that duty. Captain Underwood steamed the 
vessel over the Albemarle and up the Chowan river, 
and then, at the still hour of midnight, entered Cath- 
erine's Creekj which empties into the former river, 
opposite Holliday's Island, pushing slowly up-stream, 
using the precaution to conceal their lights, until they 
had advanced against the current for about two miles, 
when they landed in silence about one o'clock on the 
morning of the 8th, in a wooded swamp, through 
which they proceeded until they had arrived within 
about ten miles of the town of Gatesville, when they 
found themselves near the storehouses which they had 
come to destroy, and which were under the charge of 
a man named Jordan. They immediately set fire to 
the buildings, destroying provisions of great value to 
the enemy, and turned about to march back. 

Upon the return of the force to the gunboat, the 
the rear-guard, commanded by Lieutenant Cooper, was 
attacked by a small force of the enemy's cavalry, 
about twenty-five in number. Caj)tain Parisen with 
the main body immediately came to the relief of the 
guard, repulsing the cavalry with the loss of one of 
their number, who was shot in the heart. 

The detachment reached Poanoke Island on the 
9th, and great praise was accorded to Captain Parisen 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 113 

for the promptness and completeness with which he 
performed the work assigned him. 

Some time previous there was conceived in the 
regiment the idea of presenting to their Colonel some 
appropriate testimonial of the esteem and apprecia- 
tion in which they held his attachment and services 
to them all. The thought had probably existed for a 
long while, when upon one evening, in the Sergeants' 
quarters of Company B, after the matter had been 
broached, two sergeants rose up and said they would 
begin to make it generally known and* give it a start 
that evening. Accordingly they immediately paid a 
visit to all the sergeants' quarters in the regiment, 
proposing the idea with their own views as to what 
could be done. The pleasure with which the proposal 
was received, and the readiness with which they all 
acknowledged the propriety of the movement, gave 
ample promise that its final issue would be consum- 
mated in a favorable manner. Those who originated 
it requested that first sergeants would state the prop- 
osition in plain terms to their companies, requesting 
them to hold a meeting among themselves, and ap- 
point three privates as delegates to a meeting which 
would be held that same evening in the quarters of 
Company B ; and that it was not expected contribu- 
tions of more than one dollar from each member 
would be admitted, the object being to derive the 
sum from as many individuals as possible, in order 
that the testimonial might represent the feelings of 
the entire regiment separately as well as collectively. 
The meeting: was held, and all the officers and ne- 
cessary committees appointed, composed entirely of 



114 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

privates, as it was desired by the sergeants and cor- 
porals that they should conduct the affair throughout, 
with only the exceptions made by the privates them- 
selves. A meetino; was ao^ain to be lield the third 
night after ; they adjourned quite jubilant with the 
bright prospect of effecting the desirable object. At 
the second meeting about four hundred dollars was 
handed the treasurer. Several other, gatherings of 
the same nature were held, and the handsome sum 
raised was sent on to Judge Whiting of New-York, 
who, with great pleasure, obtained the article, which 
was brought on to Eoanoke Island by Dr. White on 
Friday, the 9th day of May. The box containing it 
was opened while an eager crowd pressed around, 
each zealous to obtain the first glance, wlien lo, a 
beautiful sword with a duplicate scabbard, etc., was 
exposed to the view of all present. So far the affair 
had been kept secret to the men themselves, and it is 
believed that up to a few hours previous to its pre- 
sentation not an officer in the regiment was aware of 
the intended compliment. 

A message was dispatched to Colonel Hawkins to 
the effect that his presence at Camp Reno on the 
afternoon of Saturday would confer a favor upon the 
regiment ; and the reply was, that he would attend at 
the appointed hour, though he was not at all suspi- 
cious of the agreeable intentions of the men. 

Accordingly about three o'clock on the afternoon 
of the 10th, the Colonel arrived at Camp Keno, with 
his arm still in its sling. The officers of the regiment 
crowded about him in sympathetic numbers. The 
men were busily engaged in polishing themselves for 
the occasion. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 115 

Every thing was in readiness and tlie parade was 
immediately formed, the band playing an appropriate 
air for the assembly. Sergeant-Major Diisenbury was 
in command, and gave his orders with distinctness 
and accuracy. ]^ever did the regiment make a finer 
appearance than on this happy occasion. 

The precision and celerity with which the command 
to "form square" was executed astonished all present, 
and the Colonel could not restrain himself from say- 
ing to those around him, " I am glad to see that others 
besides the ofiicers can handle my regiment." 

The committee of the presentation then escorted 
Colonel Hawkins within the square, while the band 
made some excellent music. 

When the Colonel had taken his station under the 
flag. Private Heed, of Company B, stepped forward 
and made a very appropriate presentation address, at 
the conclusion handing the sword to Colonel Haw- 
kins, who, after examining the beautiful testimonial, 
replied in a speech that will not soon be forgotten. 
After the ceremony was over each company in turn 
ran up to the headquarters, and gave nine spirited 
cheers in approbation of the sentiments that con- 
cluded the speech. 

The necessity of opening the canal to Norfolk,* 
after the evacuation of that place by the rebels, was 
urged upon the department by Colonel Hawkins, who 
foresaw the advantages to be derived from a twenty- 
four hours' communication between Old Point and 
]^ew-Berne, inasmuch as there were contemplations of 

* Note K in Appendix. 



116 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

future cooperation between Generals "Wool and Burn- 
side. Measures were taken to dredge out the canal 
and prepare it for navigation ; and at one o'clock 
Friday morning, the 6th of June, Colonel Hawkins 
started with Company K and its battery on board 
the steamer Port Royal to make a formal opening of 
communications, as intended, that force being the 
first to traverse that portion of the enemy's country. 
They were not molested to any extent, and returned 
again a few days after, vindicating the feasibility of 
the undertaking. 

Company K, Captain Whiting, was detailed as 
steamer's guard, and made the passage several times 
afterward. 

Early in June the town of Plymouth on the Poa- 
noke river was taken possession of by Lieutenant 
Flusser of the navy, and up to the 15th of the month 
had been held by the naval force under his command ; 
when Company F of the " Ninth" was detached from 
the regiment and placed by Colonel Hawkins in com- 
mand of the town, remaiuing there nntil the follow- 
ing December. Colonel Hawkins at this time com- 
menced raising the first regiment of volunteers from 
the loyal citizens of the State of !North- Carolina. 

On the 1st of July, at three o'clock in the morning, 
the regiment proceeded to Pork Point in full march- 
ing order, where it embarked on board schooners 
with the assistance of the Ocean Wave, and was after- 
ward towed down the Pamlico Sound to the mouth 
of the ]^euse river, when a steamer came out and 
handed in orders to put about and return, as the ob- 
ject for w^hich the expedition was intended had been 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 117 

accomplislied. Koanoke Island was again readied 
on the evening of the 2d. 

On July 3d the following order was issued by 
Colonel Hawkins for the observance of our N'ational 
Independence : 

Headquarters Fourth Brigade and Post, 

Roanoke Island, July 3, 1862. 
3 Special Order ) 
] No. 23. S 

To-morrow being the anniversary of our National Independ- 
ence, all labor in the camps of this post will be suspended. The 
day will be devoted to such patriotic exercises as the regimental 
commanders may deem appropriate for an observance of the 
same. 

The Colonel commanding the post would recommend that com- 
mandants of battalions form their commands at some hour during 
the forenoon, and read in their presence the Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, and add thereto such other demonstrations as may 
seem proper for the occasion. 

At twelve o'clock m. national salutes will be fired from Forts 
Foster and Parke. 

By order Rush C. Hawkins, 

Colonel Commanding Fourth Brigade and Post. 
John E. Shepard, 

A. A. A. G. 

After listening with faithful attention to the Declar- 
ation that " all men are created free and equal," blank 
cartridges were issued to the " Mnth," and they im- 
mediately set about to make such demonstrations for 
the celebration of tlie day as old soldiers understand 
so well. Almost every conceivable manner of proper 
amusement was introduced into the camp — the mimic 
life in the trenches, the charging upon fortifications 
with flying artillery mounted on wheel-barrows, the 
6* 



118 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

blowing up of magazines, etc. But what is more 
particularly deserving of remembrance is the Fantas- 
tic Parade in the afternoon. Those who engaged in 
it received the applause of all who witnessed their 
display at Camp Reno ; and they then proceeded to 
Pork Point, reviving all the good nature in the camps, 
and afterward exhausting it. 

On the 10th of July, and about two o'clock p.m., 
the regiment having received orders to leave the 
island, marched in the heat of a scorching sun to 
headquarters with their knapsacks full, experiencing 
sad effects from the intense heat. After going aboard, 
the steamers started, leaving the Croatan and gliding 
over the shallow waters of the Albemarle, arrived at 
the mouth of JN^orth river, where they came to anchor 
for the night ; the troops meantime were transferred 
to other vessels more fitting to make the passage of 
the canal they were to go through. The force started 
again at six o'clock a.m. the following morning, and 
without any interruption of note, arrived at Norfolk 
about two A.M. of the 12th, and on that day landed 
and established their camp within a stone's throw of 
the northern side of Old Fort Norfolk. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 119 



Part Eighth : 

lewpot|i$ "Rews to ;ffi|edej|io>.$but|gh an4 t^ashingion. 

THE regiment remained at tins station until the 
S-itli of July, wlien it was again ordered to em- 
bark with all equipage on board the E. S. Terry. 
Accordingly it left the fort about nine o'clock in the 
morning, during a heavy rain, and landed at I^ew- 
ports News about half-past eleven. The Zouaves 
marched past the numerons outstretched encamp- 
ments of the forces there, receiving tremendous out- 
bursts of applause from those who now witnessed the 
martial grace of men long known to them all by rep- 
utation. 

The " Ninth " established their camp some distance 
up on the immediate bank of the James river, which 
at this point has a shore elevated from thirty to fifty 
feet. The regiment's stay at this camp was brief: on 
the 3d day of August (Sunday) we find them again 
embarking in a drenching rain-storm. The steamer 
City of New- York, on which they were, left the dock 
at Newports News at about half-past two p.m., making 
a stop of five hours at Fortress Monroe, and at nine 
in the evening was steaming it up the Potomac, ar- 
riving at Acquia Creek about ten o'clock on the fol- 
lowing morning. 



120 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

On the 5th of the month the steamer Columbia 
conveyed them to the wharf on Brent's Point, where 
they landed about noon ; and after placing all the ac- 
companying luggage on the cars, they sprang into 
them, and with whistling sj)eed soon reached Fahnouth 
Station, where they pitched camp upon a hill com- 
manding the city of Fredericksburgh, and not far 
from the ancient mansion of the rebel Lacy, which 
place was called Camp Parke. 

On the 8th day of August the detachment of a hun- 
dred men, under command of Captain Graham, which 
had been left on Hoanoke Island to guard the place 
and take charge of the surplus stores of the regiment 
necessarily left behind, arrived, bringing with them 
the extra baggage and uniforms of the men. 

Knapsack drills were now adoj)ted into the habitual 
discipline of the regiment, and although the weather 
was intensely hot, the hard, dry earth reflecting as 
much heat as the fiery sun cast upon it, it was well 
shown that the Zouaves could maintain their fame for 
perfect drill no matter what disadvantage lay in the 
command. 

The dress-parades were an attractive feature, the 
band having been reorganized, reiiniformed and en- 
larged, under the excellent leadership of Mr. Wallace, 
of JS'ew-York. The ''first call" for parade in the 
quarters of the "Ninth" was always the signal for 
the other troops about to start up in their own camps 
and assemble themselves at some convenient location 
available for unobstructed observation, that they 
might obtain a sight that had not often graced the 
eyes of even old soldiers ; and it is not known that 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 121 

any have been unwilling to accord to the Zouaves en- 
comiums of excellent worth in the unusual perfection 
they had attained in the manual of arms and in their 
military exercises, as well as the strict adherence to 
discipline in all duties connected with a soldier's 
service. 

On the 12th day of August, Company H was sent 
down to guard Potomac Creek bridge. 

During their stay at Fredericksburgh the " I^inth " 
was detailed for picket-duty on the Orange Court- 
House and adjacent roads. ^Notwithstanding the 
aversion manifested by the inhabitants of that fatal 
town toward the Union troops, the Zouaves could ex- 
tract a cheer as they passed through it. The drum- 
major's attractive appearance rendered him conspicu- 
ously observed by the wondering classes, who were 
overheard remarking to themselves, " That must be 
General McClellan ! See how they all turn the corner 
when he throws out his big stick ! " 

On the 14th of August, Lieutenant George H. Her- 
bert was ordered to take a force of twenty-nine men 
and two guns from Company K, and proceed down 
the river to break up a rebel ferry that had been es- 
tablished many miles below for the purpose of facili- 
tating a cross-communication betw^een the Potomac 
and Central Virginia. Accordingly for this purpose 
the Lieutenant and his comrades embarked on the 
steamer Cooper's Point. They sped hastily down the 
Pappahannock, conceiving the idea of effecting a sur- 
prise ; and this they actually did when they reached 
the spot, so adroitly was the whole affair managed. 
After a conflict of very brief duration they succeeded 



122 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

in cajDturing thirteen prisoners with side-arms, a quan- 
tity of baggage and four horses. After destroying all 
means of rebel transportation at the ferry, they re- 
turned up the river, with the well-merited satisfaction 
of having performed -a valuable duty which at the 
outset bore the appearance of extreme hazard, with- 
out the loss of a man to themselves. 

At this progress in the events of our national his- 
tory. General Pope's defeat had been confirmed by 
the advance of the rebel army, which was not checked 
until the invasion of Marjdand compelled General 
McClellan to throw his forces in the face of the 
enemy. 

Pursuant to this end, the "E'inth" received orders 
to take up the line of march, which it did upon the 
night of the 31st of August. Although the march 
was but a short one of fifteen miles, yet the circum- 
stances under which it was executed render it worthy 
of mention in the records of the weary marches our 
brave soldiers have undergone, when attended by 
every disadvantage that so doubles distance and pro- 
longs time. Those who measure their tramps upon 
the map habitually cast away many miles that have 
been so hardly made by the overloaded soldier. The 
regiment was on picket-duty the night previous, when 
it stormed furiouslj^, wetting not only themselves but 
every thing in their possession, (excepting musket and 
powder !) more particularly the blanket and overcoat, 
which it is more desirable to keep dry, so that a single 
knapsack weighed over forty pounds, beside the ac- 
coutrements ; which fact was personally ascertained 
by Colonel Hawkins. As soon as they arrived in 
Camp Parke from picket, tents were to be struck and 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 123 

the laborious work of packing securely tlie regimental 
and company property (not to be taken with them in 
a rapid campaign) was to be performed, together with 
the vast detail of breaking up snch a camp as the 
'' JSTinth " had constructed at that place. The march 
to Acquia Creek w^as taken up about six 'o'clock, and 
the night, to add to the discomforts of the men, soon 
after set in wdth pitchy blackness ; and the roads 
being rough and hilly, and moreover very muddy and 
slij)pery from the recent rains, contributed not a little 
to the irksome toil of the night. On they trudged 
with the inability to avoid those irregularities which 
are so prevalent in the highways of Virginia, those 
behind stumbling in the incautious footsteps of those 
ahead, often leading to bruised limbs, and always pro- 
voking the laughter that did not find its way far in 
the darkness. 

About five o'clock on the following morning they 
reached Acquia Creek Station, and after some delay at 
the landing, marched about four miles upon the bluft's 
that overlook the river for many miles, and encamped 
to act as a reserve to support the artillery there. 

On the 4th of the month they marched down to 
the Station, and about eight o'clock p.m. embarked 
on the transport Louisiana, and started up the Poto- 
mac, reaching Washington, and landing about ten 
o'clock A.M. It would seem that the people of the 
capital had seen soldiery enough ; but when the 
";N'inth" passed through they evinced their appre- 
ciation of perfection in company line and change of 
manual by numerous tokens of applause. After 
marching a few miles out of the city, the regiment 
encamped upon Meridian Hill. 



124 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



jPart Ninth: 

Maahlngion to ;^i|e4et[ich. 

THE days were extremely hot and sultry, the nights 
cool with very heavy dews, and the " !Ninth " 
had not a particle of shelter of any kind. 

On the morning of the Yth Colonel Hawkins turned 
over the command of his brigade to Colonel Fair- 
child, and departed for !New-York, regretting that it 
became imperative to leave his regiment upon the 
very opening of a new and active campaign. 

About one o'clock of the 7th, the regiment left Me- 
ridian Hill to march again, but in consequence of the 
heavy wagon-trains upon the road was obliged to pro- 
ceed very slow. After marching for about ten miles 
they encamped for the night. The regiment remained 
there all day and night of the 8th. Upon the morn- 
ing of the 9th, reveille was beaten about three o'clock, 
and at sunrise the Zouaves again started on the march, 
and after accomplishing a distance of twelve miles, 
rested near Brookville at eleven o'clock a.m. At Rve 
in the afternoon tents were again struck, and by ten 
o'clock at night the regiment established camp near 
Laytonsville, having completed the second march of 
ten miles. On "Wednesday, the 10th day of Septem- 
ber, camp was again broken, and they marched out in 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 125 

the direction of Frederick. When on the road abont 
four miles, orders were received to return. 

The next day the regiment left the encampment 
near Laytonsville at about nine o'clock a.m., and pro- 
ceeded on the road toward Frederick again, passing 
the town of Damascus at half-past one p.m., and at 
five o'clock pitched camp a little south of Ridgeville, 
having marched about fifteen miles. Just before 
"tattoo," Lieut.-Colonel Kimball called the men to- 
gether, and taking from his pocket a newspaper, began 
to read to them of the fight in which Company F had 
engaged near Plymouth, and of the daring exploit of 
Sergeant Green. The victorious F's were long and 
loudly cheered by their comrades, who, though sep- 
arated from them many hundreds of miles, were thus 
assured that their name and valor would be represent- 
ed in a manner well becoming their reputation. It 
rained heavily all night. 

Early in the morning the march was again taken 
np, the regiment keeping upon the main turnpike 
that crosses the Monocacy direct for Frederick, which 
had been invaded by the rebel troops undel* Jackson. 
The town of New-Market was passed through at one 
o'clock, and about half-past three o'clock the column 
was halted under the brow of the Monocacy ridge, 
and shortly after intermittent firing was heard a short 
distance ahead. It seems that our advance had 
reached the rear of the rebel army, a small force of 
which threw a few shot and shell at the Union ad- 
vance-guard, more with the intention of hurling de- 
fiance at them than the idea of offering resistance by 
disputing the passage of the Monocacy bridge. Our 



126 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

cavalry pursued the flying rear-guard of the enemy, 
pushing them through the city up into the Catoctin 
mountains. The advance was again taken up by 
General Hodman's di\dsion ; the ridge was descended, 
the bridge was crossed ; and when the column was 
within half a mile of the outskirts of Frederick City, 
it filed off to the left, until the whole had reached the 
open field across the railroad, when they marched 
into brigade line over fences and through the high- 
topped corn, where the points of the colors only could 
be seen by which to keep the line, overleaping every 
obstacle, or throwing it prostrate in the path. A 
double picket-fence was one of the obstructions that 
stood in the line of advance in front of the right wing 
of the '' Ninth ;" but the men easily swept it down 
with the butts of their muskets. 

Troops were now pouring into the city upon all the 
roads east and south. The "Ninth " pitched its camp 
upon the rocky bluff that looks down upon the rail- 
road close by the depot. 

It was a night of the wildest excitement in the 
streets of Frederick. Never again will the avenues 
resound with the same wild burst of enthusiasm — the 
clamor of an army mingled with the gladsome shouts 
of the populace, who seized upon every occasion to 
exhibit their practical loyalty to the starry banner, by 
extending with welcoming arms of hospitality every 
sort of kindness and liberality to the brave veterans 
who had unfurled its protecting stripes over their 
helpless heads. 

"When the enemy took possession of the city not a 
Union flag and but very few rebel banners were to 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 127 

be seen. The houses were universally slmt in the 
faces of the traitors ; but when the Union forces ar- 
rived the streets bloomed ont as profusely as a garden 
with flowers, and everywhere the army was received 
with a joyons outburst that will be remembered for 
many a day. 

Soldiers in the street were taken by the hand and 
invited to share the evening meal just spread.^" 

One Zouave met an old friend, the proprietor of a 
saloon. After being asked in he saw a bill of reward 
offered for a runaway slave posted on the wall. " I 
posted that up for the rebels," said the proprietor; 
" but tliis^'' he continued, raising the paper, " I hung 
here for you, boys." There was displayed a colored 
engraving of the charge of the Hawkins Zouaves at 
Hoanoke Island. It is sufficient to add that the 
Zouaves were favorites among all with whom they 
came in contact. 

* Note L in Appendix. 



128 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES; 



Part Tenth 

;tft|e^et|ic^ to .^ntleiam. 

01^ tlie morning of the 13th, the regiment received 
orders to go out and support Rush's Lancers, 
who were endeavoring to push back the rebel videttes 
and skirmishers, but unable to do so in the absence of 
the necessary cooperation of infantry. While passing 
through the city the Zouaves displayed some of their 
best marching, and the applause of the congregated 
multitude fully expressed their admiration of the excel- 
lent soldierly qualities of men who could exhibit the 
superiority of their drilling with such perfect noncha- 
lance while moving immediately upon the enemy — it 
being supposed at the. time, and not without found- 
ation, that they were to fight a battle within the next 
hour. 

They proceeded out of the city toward Jefferson 
City, and soon arrived at the spot where the Lan- 
cers had come to a halt in the face of the enemy. It 
was immediately ascertained that the rebels had a 
mountain howitzer in the road upon the hill in front, 
but with what force it w%s supported it was not 
known. Companies C and I were sent to the right 
of the road, and B to the left, to de])loy and advance 
under cover as skirmishers, to be followed up by tlie 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 129 

main force on the road. For a long wliile the flank- 
ers advanced, removing huge obstacles that lay in the 
way, np hill and down, through wood and stream. 
The force on the right captured one rebel picket ; on 
the left a corporal gave rapid chase through a broken 
ravine for another of the enemy's pickets, who, how- 
ever, succeeded in making his escape. Fearing to be 
outflanked by this practical demonstration upon either 
side, the rebels adopted a precipitate retreat, using 
horses to haul the howitzer. They were eagerly pur- 
sued by the " Ninth," but fear lending the enemy un- 
usual celerity, their escape became merely a matter ol 
speed. 

Jefi'erson City was reached, arms stacked in the 
main street, and picket-guard thrown out around the 
vicinity. The inhabitants threw open their doors and 
shared their substance with the Zouaves, who were in- 
vited in. Milk, butter, and fruits, in great variety 
and abundance, were given by the people, and readily 
devoured by the hungry men. At about six o'clock 
in the evening the regiment resumed its arms, draw- 
ing in all the pickets, save that of Sergeant Jackson, 
who was unfortunately left on post with his men, and 
set about on the return, reaching Frederick about 
eleven o'clock at ni2:ht, havins; marched about twen- 
ty-five miles, many of the skirmishers far overreach- 
ing that distance. 

Orders were received to be ready again to move at 
two o'clock the next morning, and the men imme- 
diately betook themselves to rest. But a fire in the 
city interrupted their repose, and the Zouaves turned 
out to act as firemen. The jail, in whicli a number 



130 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

of prisoners were lodged was in flames ; some of the 
Zouaves smTounded it and prevented tlieir escape, 
while others extinguished the fire ; after which they 
once more lay down in their little tents. But it 
seemed as though they had scarce closed their eyes 
again when reveille was sounded, and they were 
obliged to rouse themselves once more. It was al- 
most im^Dossible for them, in such an exhausted con- 
dition, to get up and " put on their armor ;" and it 
may be pardonable if they did it with less alacrity 
than usual, for it called for all the stern stuff soldiers 
are made of. 

The sergeant of the guard that night writes that 
"it was almost impossible to keep awake; but tired 
as I was, I dared not sit down for the fear of going to 
sleep if I allowed myself a moment's rest ; so I was 
forced to keep moving on my feet all the long night, 
and that too in the anticipation of marching all the 
next day — wondering how long it would be before I 
should drop down from sheer exhaustion. But only 
those who have tried it know what man is capable of 
enduring. It was almost fatile to attempt to put on the 
third relief, for they were allowed to sleep a couple of 
hours, and as soon as one man was stirred up to duty 
another would go to sleep. The drum-corps, who were 
now ordered to beat reveille, were found to be in the 
same fix. I pulled them by the heels, raised them up 
and rolled them over, but to no purpose, I could not 
waken them ; when a thought occurred to me — I 
seized a drum and beat it wildly about their ears, 
when suddenly they roused themselves, took their 
drums in the most mechanical manner, and beat the 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 131 

reveille with only what little spirit was required to 
get out the rolls and flams." 

At about three o'clock in the morning of tlie l-ith, 
the regiment left camp and passed out of the city, 
going by the way of Fairville and Jerusalem, arriving^ 
at Middletown near ten o'clock a.m. Marching up 
a portion of the heights that overlook the town, they 
pitched their tents, and were allowed to rest awhile. 
A few crackers and a little coffee were given them — 
some of the men devouring their whole rations before 
leaving the spot. 

Orders were received to strike tents again at two 
o'clock P.M., which they did in great haste and order, 
with some little desire to atone for their seeming tar- 
diness of the early morning, and took up their march 
in the direction of the battle in advance, which at this 
time was being opened briskly. The Zouaves forded 
a small stream at the foot of South-Mountain, and 
struck into a narrow and stony road leading up to the 
summit. When passing up its steep side they received 
intelligence of the contest from the wounded, who 
were fast being brought to the rear, "and," it was 
added, "the rebels are impudent and not afraid to 
show themselves." The "Ninth" preferred a frank, 
open flght, and pushed up the mountain vigorously, 
in the hope of reaching the field in time to engage 
themselves in the noble work of dislodging the enemy 
from his strong position. The way was tortuous and 
difficult, and it was not until five o'clock in the after- 
noon that they reached the scene of conflict, when the 
Ohio division charged up the steep heights and drove 
the enemy back into the wood that covered the oppo- 



132 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

site side of the mountain. The first brigade of Gen- 
eral Rodman's division ascended to the summit, and 
there lay quietly supporting a heavy battery, the 
" !Ninth " on the right of the line. 

The enemy had concealed themselves in a close 
copse of laurel on the western slope of the mountain, 
lying like a catamount in wait, and tlien sprang from 
their cover with great fierceness, making an impet- 
uous charge upon the battery, discharging their pieces 
at the moment they came in view of the force against 
whom they were to dash themselves. But it was only 
as the rush of breakers upon a huge rock — there was a 
great roar and considerable foam, but the adamantine 
wall stood fast and replied so violently that the surg- 
ing tide rolled back with great loss. The bullets for 
a moment filled the air, but all cleared away and the 
"stars" shone brilliantly in their azure field, seeming- 
ly brighter from the fire. 

About dark the regiment was put on picket to 
guard the extreme left of the army. Company K's 
battery was on the reserve, supported by several com- 
panies, and so stationed as to sweep any attacking 
party who should strive to force the picket-line. An 
incessant fire was kept up between General Reno's* 
command and the force of the enemy opposed to him 
for about two hours after darkj but on the left all re- 
mained comparatively quiet throughout the night. 

On the following day the " JSTinth " was relieved, 
remaining on the reserve. Rations were expected, 
but owing to the stupidity of some wagon -master 

* It was at this time that the lamented Keno met his death. 



THEirt BATTLES AND MARCHES. 133 

were taken on the wrong road, and tlie men were 
ol)li2:ed, notwitlistandino^ tlie arniv bad abundant 
supplies, to forage for what little they could obtain 
from corn and potato-fields previously gone over by 
rebels, and from the haversacks of the dead. From 
the latter some sugar and tough biscuits were taken. 

About five o'clock in the afternoon the "JSTinth" 
was ordered forward again. At the top of the moun- 
tain they struck into the rough and narrow road 
before mentioned, and while going dow^n the western 
side beheld a scene which gave horrible testimony to 
the severity of the confiict of the day before, and the 
disastrous loss of the enemy. The dead lay piled in 
heaps upon either side of the road, their faces ghastly 
and black, and their bodies shrunk to skeletons. It 
was estimated that several hundreds had fallen in one 
spot. Their numbers were so great upon the road 
that it was necessary to remove them before passage 
could be made by the troops. 

The Zouaves, with the rest of the corps, now 
pressed forward hotly upon tlie rear of the flying 
rebels, crossed Little Antietam Creek near Keedys- 
ville, forded another small stream, shortly afterward 
passing Locust Spring. The men were ready to drop 
from the excessive fatigue they had undergone for the 
past week, and it was thought judicious as well as 
humane to allow tliem a little rest. They were ac- 
cordingly much rejoiced when tliey learned that their 
labors were so near ended for that nio-lit, it beino- 
about eleven o'clock. They stopped at the foot of 
Red Hill and immediately prostrated themselves for 
repose, taking no time to make shelter, but wishing 
1 



184: . THE HAWKIKS ZOUAVES : 

heartily for some rations with which to appease their 
hunger. But the wagons could nowhere be found, and 
therefore resolution was called for to fast yet awhile. 
On the morning following it was expected the 
•'Ninth" would move again, and orders were re- 
ceived by Lieut.-Colonel Kimball to that effect ; but 
General Rodman, riding by at the time, was accosted 
by him, who said it would be utterly impossible for 
the "Ninth" to move an inch further without pro- 
visions. Whereupon the General inquired into their 
conditiofi, and learning the facts, he expressed great 
astonishment and deep regret that the men had been 
the victims of such treatment in the midst of plenty. 
They should have rations of coffee and crackers as 
soon as they could be supplied. About this time a 
sergeant and corporal took their canteens and went 
below to Locust Spring to fill them ; having done so 
they returned through the orchard of Mr. Ghetting, 
near where some artillery lay parked. While leaping 
a fence the soldiers both at once espied a cracker 
lying upon the plowed ground, and both simulta- 
neously sprang for it. Seeing the movement, a gun- 
ner, who was standing near by, exclaimed : " What, 
are you red-heads so near starving as all that ! Come 
over in the field and you shall have as much as you 
can carry." The two Zouaves were directed to help 
themselves from half-depleted cracker-boxes. " O 
joy ! " said they. The haversack brought with them 
was filled, their pockets crowded, and as they began 
stuffing their shirts to the waist-belt, said the sergeant, 
" I shall take some to my brother; won't he be glad?" 
"And I," said tlte corporal, "will surprise my mess- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 135 

mates when I get back ; tliej shall have as many as 
they want." The gunner smiled slightly and wiped 
his eye with his coat-sleeve. When they reached 
camp they fonnd that General Rodman had furnished 
the regiment rations — the quantity issued being one 
spoonful of coffee, one spoonful of sugar, and eight or 
ten crackers. 

About eight o'clock a.m. of the 16th, the rebels 
opened their batteries upon the Union forces, who 
replied vigorously ; the interchange of shot and shell 
lasting till eleven o'clock, when the enemy retired. 
The "I^inth" met with no severe loss. At live 
o'clock P.M. the regiment was again ordered forward, 
and after reaching the line of battle — already formed 
in the immediate front of the enemy — they w^ere led 
off by General Rodman to the left, and shortly after 
dark arrived at the extreme left of the army. The 
night was black as ebony, and gave promise of a 
storm. The flank was now led out further by one 
of the General's staff, the utmost caution being ob- 
served as they advanced, and the greatest silence 
maintained so that no noise that could be distin- 
guished for even a few rods was made. The other 
regiments of the brigade were conducted in the same 
silent manner, but somewhat to the rear, forming a 
sort of echelon by the flank on the " Mnth." The 
latter had now reached a piece of wood, along the 
edge of which they proceeded through a cornfield, 
but had gone only a few yards when a rushing sound, 
as of the heavy tramp of soldiery coming down the 
hill upon their left, warned every man to stand ready 
and firm to meet the supposed attack. " Fix bayo- 



136 THE HAWKIXS ZOUAVES : 

net 1 " said Lieut. -Colon el Kimball. The order was 
executed almost before it was given, and the men 
stoutly faced the dan^^er. General Rodman rushed to 
the spot, that he might take immediate charge of the 
coming conflict. Soon the command of " Halt, halt !" 
several times given was distinguished above the stifled 
clamor that noAV distinctly revealed the tramping ad- 
vance of a supposed enemy. A moment after and 
all w^as again quiet ; the Zouaves were confronted at 
only a few paces distant by the One Hundred and 
Third IS'ew-York Yolunteers. But had the Germans 
continued to advance but a moment longer, they 
would surely have received a volley of musketry, 
and their proximity gives conception of the terrible 
slaugliter that would have ensued. The regiment 
again proceeded forward, an advance-guard detached 
from Company B testing the safety of the ground 
ahead. Greater stealtli was now assumed, for it was 
supposed the enemy w^ere making the same maneuver 
in order to eflect a flanking in the morning, should it 
be deemed possible or politic, and therefore it was 
anticipated that the two forces w-ould soon come in 
contact with each other. But the position at first 
designed by the Union General was taken up without 
meeting the expected resistance, and the "Mnth" 
halted and lay on their arms. Shortly after, the 
EisL'htv-ninth and One Hundred and Third New- York 
Yolunteers followed the example of the Zouaves, and 
w^ere placed on the extreme flank. It rained during 
the night. 

Early on the morning of the lYth tlie troops who 
had taken their station in the corn-field w^ere ordered 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 137 

to lie low, tliat tlie work of tlie niglit before might not 
readily be discovered. But owing to some careless- 
ness on the left of the brigade, the line was exposed 
to the searching glance of the rebels, who could be 
plainly seen on the opposite high bank of Antietam 
Creek. Officers, apparently of the staff, were seen 
to gallop np from behind the hill, take out their 
glasses, view the location intently, and after obtain- 
ing what view they desired, or what knowledge of the 
situation might be had, they posted back again in all 
haste ; and soon the activity of the rebels in that 
•quarter suggested the idea that they were placing a 
battery to dislodge the brigade. Picket-firing now 
began between the forces, and shortly after shells 
came flying wildly over the heads of the Federal 
troops. But the rebels were not long in getting 
range, so that after a few discharges the shells were 
droj^ped with some precision in . the line of the 
First brigade, their fire being more particularly di- 
rected to the '' Mnth," as their red caps were plainly 
visible. The firing from the enemy's battery finally 
became so severe that General Eodman thought it 
necessary to fall back a short distance, under cover of 
the hill and wood just in the rear. After the "Ninth " 
had lost fourteen men wounded, the order to execute 
the retrograde movement was given, and the whole 
brio;ade was faced about, and marched to the rear, 
while the shell came thicker and faster. While the 
regiment was passing the open space upon top of the 
hill, a piece of railroad iron, about ten inches long, 
thrown from the enemy's gun, struck the ground and 
came dancing on with no very great speed, and while 



138 . THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

it took its general^ course for Lieut.-Colonel Kimball, 
it floundered about like a headless ben. At tbis com- 
ical sigbt tbe men were forced to laugh, though it 
was a missile of death. But be dashed the spurs into 
his horse, and succeeding in eluding it ; and it sank 
exhausted at the feet of the reoiment. Tbe life the 
cannon's breath bad put in it was extinct. The force 
soon got under cover, and the rebels now, no longer 
retaining knowledge of their precise position, slack- 
ened fire, and at last ceased altogether. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 189 



Part Eleventh : 



i^ntleiain to l?lea$ant 1(?alloy. 



^7HILE a great battle was being fought on tlic 




right and in the centre of the army, the great 
force which composed the left wing remained inactive 
during the fore part of the day. Had they been ^^rop- 
erly iised there is no doubt that the rebel army would 
have been comjDletely destroyed. 

After noon the Third division was placed in line 
upon a hill sloping to Antietam Creek. On the left 
of the "]^inth," Company K's battery was ordered 
into position ; and there the troops lay for a long 
time, anxiously awaiting the issue of the contest, 
which seemed dangerously suspended over their 
heads all the day. The weather was charming, and 
as the troops looked around upon the quiet scenery 
they could scarcely realize that a great battle was 
going on. The artillery of both sides, placed in line 
of battle for miles in extent, now opened upon each 
other Y/ith a furious discharge of shot and shell, 
making a most imposing as well as an awful sight. 
Skirmishing prevailed in the immediate front of the 
Third division, and the dead and wounded dotted the 
ground thickly. 

Company K's battery sent shell after shell into the 



140 THE HAWEINS ZOUAVES: 

willows' and pines that covered the opposite bank of 
the creek, and soon the dislodged enemy could be 
seen digging np the steep hill with fearful exertions 
to gain cover bevond. Some cavalry also further to 
the left were routed. 

The rebels evidently anticipated a movement by 
the Union troops under cover of this fire, for they 
immediately threw out their skirmishers upon the 
hill in order to feel any advance contemplated in 
that direction. But a few shell from Company K 
gave them a chance to smell the battle not afar off. 
They bowed a few times to the dust by way of acknow- 
ledging that the fire was well directed, and tlien 
retired more confused than graceful. 

General Sturgis had charged the bridge across the 
Antietam and carried it, and the Third division was 
now led forward to the ford below, to force a crossing 
at that point. The '•' Ninth " reached the place after 
strusffflinp; throuo-h the tano'led wood and over the 
dehris of broken rock and fallen trees, and at once 
sprang into the water, the sharp-shooters upon the 
heights beyond disputing their efforts to cross. But 
tlie Zouaves pushed against the swift current, and 
scorning to halt for all other opposition, reached the 
opposite shore. The other regiments of the brigade 
crossed afterward, and ascending the hills on the left, 
drove back the rebels there lodged behind the stone 
walls, and whose fire was becoming too annoying to 
withstand when it was in the power of the Union 
troops to stop it. 

The "Ninth" then attempted to ascend the rocky 
and wooded cliff directly in their front, but their 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 141 

efforts in tliat direction were unavailing ; for tliey 
had not proceeded far, Y\dien towering rocks that 
could not be scaled confronted them, and the regi- 
ment, therefore, was broken into detachments and 
sent to the right and left, in order to drive therefrom 
any rebels that might be secreted in the wood ; and 
in this manner, after overcoming many difficulties, 
they gained the summit, and effected a junction with 
the troops who had just forced the bridge and carried 
the heights beyond it by a murderous assault. A 
number of rebels, wounded, no doubt, by company 
K's shell, had been deposited by their comrades upon 
a stack of straw, which had taken fire when the 
pickets and sharp-shooters were dislodged. Some 
of them were literally roasted alive, when the ad- 
vent of the Union troops saved the others from a 
like fate. 

A grand and imposing line of battle was now formed 
by the troops composing the left wing of the army. 
For about the space of tvv^o hours all remained quiet 
in this position, and the soldiers looked well to their 
arms and ammunition. The rebels had apparently 
drawn back into their chosen position behind the 
stone walls, which they had strengthened until they 
were thought to be sufficiently formidable, their artil- 
lery opening as a prelude to the havoc which was 
about commencing. 

Shells were thrown wide of their mark at first, as 
though they had not ascertained the precise location 
of the Union forces. But it seemed no difficult mat- 
ter to judge of their whereabouts sufficient for the 
purpose of shelling, as it was known that they ha,4 



142 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

crossed the creek and had not passed over the hill 
either to the right or to the left ; consequently it must 
have been inferred that they lay just under the brow 
of the heights. And this was undoubtedly the con- 
clusion they had arrived at, for they persisted in 
throwing; the shell, which every moment touched 
nearer and nearer the object aimed at. The artillery 
of General Burnside's corps, still remaining upon the 
hills east of the Antietam, replied to the rebel batter- 
ies with a savage spirit, and although inflicting much 
injury, was unable to suppress their fire, which now 
became more deadly to the troops of the Third divi- 
sion. The " Mnth " lay exceedingly low, many of 
the shell striking in front of them and ricocheting 
over their heads before exploding ; others, more un- 
fortunately, striking and bursting in the ranks, kill- 
ing and wounding half a dozen men at each dis- 
charge. 

Captain Gardner, formerly Assistant Adjutant-Gen- 
eral on the staff of General Parke, stood in the rear 
of Company II, a little down the hill, holding with 
considerable exertion his frightened horse by the 
bridle, when a small shell exploded between his head 
and that of his horse, the innumerable fragments scat- 
tering in all directions with a terrible whirr. Both 
master and horse were blinded for a moment, and 
those who saw the incident expected to see them both 
fall torn in pieces, but instead, witnessed one of those 
narrov\^ escapes which can only be ascribed to the 
marvelous protection of other powers than those of 
chance. The horse alone received a slight scratch on 
one of his lesfs. 



TPIEIB BATTLES AND MARCHES. 143 

Shortly after, a large shell burst directly among 
the color-gnard, piercing the colors in many places, 
killing three, wonnding four, and the remaining cor-- 
poral was rolled over and over down the hill for sev- 
eral yards. Corporal Fink was badly bruised, and 
laid by for two weeks, his sufferings resembling rheu- 
matic pains. He rejoined his regiment, and was pro- 
moted to the rank of color-bearer. 

Lieut.-Colonel Kimball was impatiently walking 
up and down the line, anxious for the battle to begin, 
being firmly impressed with the presage that lie would 
never be killed on the field of battle — and he was 
not. 

At length General Rodman came along, and after 
surveying the position for a moment, sent forward a 
company from the " E^inth " as skirmishers, and soon 
after they had engaged those of the enemy, Avho fell 
back, the General g-ave the command of, " First bri- 
gade ! Forward !" 

Eagerly did the men spring to their feet ; and the 
activity with which they obeyed the order indicated 
the anxiety they had experienced to be delivered from 
the wearing suspense they were kept in all day. As 
they reached the top of the hill, they were openly ex- 
posed to the full sweep of the rebel batteries in front ; 
and as they pushed on, they left their fallen comrades 
by the score upon the ground. But no enemy was 
yet to be seen, and another elevation was before them. 
Fences and other obstructions were to be surmounted, 
and many fell in the various attitudes of climbing. 
When they had approached tlie second hill, they 
trampled over several brigades lying under protection 



144 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

of its favorable elevation. It seemed a secure place, 
none of the rebel batteries being able to reacli it witli 
their shell. Wonlcl the "Mnth" seek its cover? 
The thought might have suggested a refuge in such 
an hour of peril as a secure retreat for — cowards. 
But it does not seem by their conduct that there was 
any disposition to avail themselves of the chance. 
They shouted alono^ the line, as upon a former occa- 
sion, urging the inactive troops to rise up and rush 
upon the enemy, at the same time the action of the 
Zouaves expressing their intention of taking the lead. 
Seeing that they did not stir, but cringed lower be- 
neath the rebel fire, the " ISTinth " rushed forward. 

The regiment hurried on, and soon reached the top 
of the second hill, where again they were forced to 
face the tornado of shot and shell, now augmented by 
a battery the rebels had placed far tc) the right, cut- 
ting the Union troops with a severe enfilading fire. 
The Zouaves did not blench before this nev/ destruc- 
tion, but impetuously pressed onward, that they might 
meet hand to hand a murderous foe they could not 
see, and whose fire they could not yet return, and put 
an end to a contest that presented every disadvan- 
tage. Men fell at every step, but still " Forward !" 
was the shout preceding their war-cry of " Zoo-zoo- 
zoo !" They passed down the descent that made a 
slight vale, and soon obtained the slope of the other 
hill in advance of them, where a halt was ordered to 
gain a moment's breath for the. final requirements of 
the struggle, which all felt was near at hand. They 
had advanced a long distance on the double-quick, 
and this occasion for a moment's respite to concen- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 145 

trate their scattered strength was most opportune and 
humane. Lieut. -Colonel Kimball ordered the bugler 
to blow the " assembly of the ]N"inth," which had late- 
ly been adopted ; it was done in a blast of three times 
three, the notes sounding clear and distinct above 
the clin of canncm and bursting shells, and served not 
only the purpose of guiding those whose strength had 
not enabled them to keep up v/ith the more hardy 
veterans, but also gave a shout of defiance to the 
enemy. They had a brief but never-to-be-forgotten 
opportunity of witnessing the terrible loss of life and 
blood this lengthy but rapid charge had cost. As 
far back as they could see, the track of the regiment 
was strewn with the slain, who dotted the earth as so 
many footsteps of blood to the victory they were striv- 
ing for. With each sigh for the fallen came addi- 
tional nerve to avenge them, as their eyes trayersed 
again that ladder of death by which they had as- 
cended. 

Immediately in the rear of Company B was a group 
of four dead Zouaves, lying one across the other, as 
though they had stood side by side and fallen simul- 
taneously. One man went quickly to them and care- 
fully turned them aside, to look at their faces and see 
if life might be extinct — perhaps of a brother. He 
solemnly shook his head and again hastily returned 
to his duty. A little nearer, and behind Company 
II, lay a man wounded in a most frightful manner. 
The lower portion of his jaw had been carried away, 
and the torn fragments that remained, together with 
his tongue, clotted with gore, hung down upon his 
breast. He sustained himself with one hand while 



146 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

with tlie otlier lie proudly waved liis fez in the air, 
an action that interpreted the language of his heart — 
"fallen, but not conquered." 

" See that !" exclaimed Lieut.-Colonel Kimball, 
pointing excitedly with his sword ; '^ isn't that 
enough to make you fight ?" 

The men looked at each other, and the tears that 
then mingled, and which the hot and hissing shell 
could not stanch, seemed red with sympathetic blood. 

The command " Forward !" was again given, and 
the " ]^inth," in line with the whole division, once 
more advanced, ascending the third elevation, which 
was but a gentle rise upon the main portion of the 
heights. Up to this time they had received the fire 
of artillery only, and had not returned a shot ; but as 
they arrived near the top of the ascent, several bri- 
gades^of rebel infantry, which were posted behind the 
stone walls, opened at once a galling storm of bullets 
u^Don them. A scene of carnage now ensued too ter- 
rible to describe ; the imagination, however, may be 
aided by the statistics, which estimate that from the 
ranks of the " Xinth " alone there fell, in the space ol 
a few minutes, about two hundred men killed and 
wounded. The walls in front fairly bristled with 
the muskets of the enemy. The Zouaves were or- 
dered strictly to retain their fire until they should 
have approached within whispering distance of the 
rebels, then to give them a hot fire of " Minie ;" after- 
ward to rush upon them with the cold, bright bayo- 
net and finish the work. Therefore, up to this time 
they had withheld their fire ; but when a stalwart 
rebel raised himself head and shoulders over the wall. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. . l-iZ 

opj)osite Company H, every man who saw tlie act in 
the two right companies instantly and simultane- 
ously raised his riile and sent a bullet at the audacious 
foe. He was afterward found with about a dozen 
balls in his head. This started the blaze of musketry 
alono; the w^hole line, for the left, hearino; the vollevs, 
supposed the order had been given to ''commence 
firing ;" for the din of battle was so great, a command 
could be heard only by a few. The right wing fol- 
lowed the same action for a similar reason ; and the 
fire of 'the enemy was now returned to them with 
such fierceness that there was scarcely a hole in the 
wall that was not pierced, and a finger could not be 
raised above it without fear of amputation. The 
*' ISTinth " still advanced, though they had already 
a^Dproached within fifty yards of the rebel brigade, 
many of which lay stretched out in death since the 
Zouaves began to fire. Although the regiment was 
well-nigh exhausted before it reached this spot, yet 
when they saw the implacable foe almost within their 
grasp, it sent renewed vigor to their hearts and new 
strength to their nerves, and on, still on they rushed, 
maddened at the thous-lit of their fallen comrades. 
The enemy until this moment had felt comparatively 
secure behind the wall, but now had some misgivings 
about their safety, when the men whom they sup- 
posed they could easily repulse still came on with 
renewed determination, and they scattered in flight 
like so many leaves. 

A scene of the wildest confusion took place when 
the Zouaves surmounted the wall. Some of the ene- 
my begged for mercy on the spot, while others resist- 



148 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

ed witli right good-will, using the bayonet, for few, 
in such close contact, conld get the chance to re-load 
their pieces. Th se who ran away were qnickly 
reached with bullets, and many fell in their cowardly 
flight ; others threw down their arms to save their 
lives by submission. The Zouaves now had it all 
their own way, and all along the line startling inci- 
dents occurred sufficient to fill a volume. 

The colors of the regiment were nobly taken care 
of. Sergeant Myers, the color-bearer, had been 
wounded, and fell, but upheld the flag until he was 
relieved by another, who was soon shot. Another 
seized the standard and bore it but a little way when 
he also fell. A very young Zouave next grasped it 
firmly, and with the most undaunted courage ran out 
many yards in advance of the line, and thus becom- 
ing a single mark, fell with many bullets piercing 
him. Another and another bore the colors, but both 
were wounded. Eight men successivel}^ carried it, 
and each fell, killed or wounded. But it was tri- 
umphantly planted upon the spot the enemy had 
occupied, and who were now upon a hill beyond. 

They had been heavily reinforced by troops thrown 
from their left, and the two forces now did but little 
more than look at each other. Had the Union troops 
again assaidted them in their new and strong posi- 
tion, they would undoubtedly have met with a bloody 
repulse, without the assistance of those idle brigades, 
which should have been used on the flank ; and for 
this reason tlie left of the Federal forces fell gently 
back into a position where their artillery could be 
eff'ectively used. 



TPIEIR BATTLES AND MAECHES. 149 

Among the prisoners captured were some few of 
the Third Georgia — one of them a captain, who fell 
into the hands of the Zouaves at the battle of Cam- 
den — which was plain evidence that the "Mntli" 
had met the same regiment three times in fierce, mor- 
tal combat, (not including the battle of Chicomocom- 
ico, where they came so near meeting,) in each en- 
gagement defeating it badly, and capturing a number 
of its men. It is related by a Zouave who lost a leg 
at the battle of Camden, and who fell into the hands 
of the rebels, that when he was transported from 
South-Mills to E"orfolk, he was placed in company 
with some of the vrounded of the Third Georgia, who 
were not in very placid humor, after their defeat on 
the nineteenth of April ; and while in conversation 
with them, they stated that they had been extremely 
anxious to meet the Hawkins Zouaves since the bat- 
tle of Eoanoke, where they did not have a fair fight, 
being scart out of it ; but they thought now that the 
" Third " might rest contented with every desire in 
that respect gratified. It may be presumed, there- 
fore, that at the battle of Antietam, where the Geor- 
gians were behind the stone- wall, the appearance of 
the "Eed-caps" did not infuse among them a super- 
fluous deo-ree of confidence in a favorable termination 
of the combat ; and their sudden flight, together with 
the loss they sustained, argues strongly that they had 
not retracted the opinions expressed after the Camden 
fight. 

The " Mnth " bivouacked at night in the face of 
the enemy, and although they numbered some three 
hundred and fifty men less than in the morning of 



150 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES 

the day, and there was iiot a mess throughout the 
whole regiment that did not sadly miss its mates, yet 
so exhausted were they by the loss of strength wasted 
in the late struggle that they lay down upon the 
ground and wrapped themselves in sound slumber, nor 
" dreamed of home," nor '' in visions fought their bat- 
tles over again," to " show how fields were won ;" 
but it was that quiet sleep soldiers can take when 
they know that they may rest — " their warfare o'er." 

But the night passed, and the next day dawned 
upon the battle-field, gladdening the hearts of the 
suffering wounded, who lay helpless between the 
lines, watching for the first peep of daylight across 
the Antietam. A single shell from the enemy whiz- 
zed through the air, but met with no response from 
the Union side. The regiment was sent out on pick- 
et, and the excitement of picket-firing was indulged 
in to the extent of a few wounded. In the afternoon 
it was relieved by a ISTew-York regiment. 

Company K had taken up a position on a high hill 
commanding the enemy's situation, and had done ex- 
cellent service, dropping a continual stream of shell 
into their line of skirmishers and their supporters, 
driving them back twice with'great loss. The com- 
pany forded the creek under a heavy fire, and, after 
expending all their ammunition in the hot contest, re- 
crossed it ; when they were detailed by General Burn- 
side as sharp-shooters, which position they occujjied 
all night of the seventeenth, and all day of the eight- 
eenth. 

The regiment had recrossed the Antietam, and on 
the nio:ht of the eighteenth bivouacked near a liospi- 



THEIE BATTLES AND MARCHES. 151 

tal, wliicli liad just been establisliecl. On the clay fol- 
lowing, orders were received to move again immedi- 
ately. Abont eleven o'clock a.m. the line was formed, 
and they started forward, crossing the creek, and theii 
passed over the battle-field, Vv'hich had been occupied 
by the enemy for some time. The dead were being 
buried and the wounded removed into hospitals, as 
fast as possible, by the men detailed for that purpose. 

The dead had been stripped by the rebels of almost 
every thing that could be turned to their service, and 
many indignities w^ere suffered by those who were too 
badly crippled to drag themselves off ; while there are 
many instances also where individuals received mag- 
nanimous attention from the enemy. But all alike 
suffered the loss of purse and such garments as the 
rebels thought might easily be spared to those who 
were less provided for. 

Many of the wounded were suffering far more than 
they otherwise would on account of their exhausted 
condition when they entered the fight, and many, no 
doubt, were dying for that same reason ; but by far 
the greater number of deaths after the battle occurred 
from a very different and entirely useless cause. The 
rebels were completely defeated, and a little further 
vigorous use of the bayonet would have routed or 
captured the w^hole force, and their army must have 
been destroyed. But the cowardice or treachery of 
the Commanding General permitted them to escape, 
and, so to speak, furnished the crutches with which 
they were to attempt a decent retreat. The Union 
forces had " fallen gently back," and our wounded 
lay between the two lines, suffering all sorts of pain 



152 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

and agony, wondering what imbecility could be so in- 
liuman as to leave tliem in such a critical condition 
between two fires. But the danger of being again 
wounded, and perhaps killed, was insignificant in com- 
parison with the probabilities of death by sheer ne- 
glect. The army should have been pushed ahead 
and these men rescued ; and in the performance of 
such a humane duty they would have found the enemy 
so enfeebled that his capture must have been certain. 
'No more troops were necessary. A victory, mantled 
with the red flush of battle, would have inspirited the 
soldiery to a greater triumph. Every thing was pro- 
pitious for complete success. In view of this the 
General was as strictly commanded as Moses at the 
Red Sea : " Speak unto tliem"^ that they go forward !" 
It was not a question of ability — that had already 
been discharged by the soldiers, who now looked to 
their General to save what they had harvested ; but 
he stood idly by, and saw the enemy carry off the 
fruits of victory, when the one word " Forward !" 
from him was all that was needed. But no ; triumph 
was to be limited to results scarcely more gratifying 
than those of defeat. Those who had lost their limbs 
and spilled their blood to gain success must lie upon 
the field, torn, still bleeding, hungry, thirsty, and dy- 
ing by hundreds, because their General v/as too cow- 
ardly to close with the enemy and save them from 
such a terrible fate. • 

The " N^intli" marched onward, turning down the 
creek to the left, and after proceeding about six miles, 

* Them — " the children of Israel." 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 153 

again pitclied camp, immediately on tlie banks of the 
Antietam. The enemy had fallen hack from his posi- 
tion, and was using his utmost endeavors to avoid an- 
other conflict. Large reinforcements had arrived, 
with which he could be closely pursued, and the vet- 
erans were allowed a partial rest; and the Zonaves 
now lay back on their laurels for a few days ; but they 
still found abundant occupation in washing their 
clothes and cleansing their persons ; for so actively 
had they been engaged the j)ast few wrecks that 
scarcely so much as a shoe had been removed. 

On Sunday, September twenty-first, the regiment 
was regularly inspected, and their appearance highly 
complimented by the inspecting oflicers for perfection 
of discipline and tidiness about quarters, though 
various articles of clothing and ecpipment were want- 
ing. 

Colonel Hawkins had arrived at the headquarters 
of the regiment, being welcomed with much cheering 
and other noisy demonstrations of joy. He was much 
pleased with the cleanliness of his own men ; the 
well-brushed clothes, neatly-cut hair, shining accou- 
trements, and well-polished shoes, deserved attention. 
But when he was obliged to turn his eyes from this 
to other portions of his command, he could not ab- 
stain from expressions of disgust ; and while always 
desirous of according to merit the just praise it de- 
mands, on the other hand he would not withhold the 
censure which slovenliness and filth invoke. It is not 
necessary to locate the offenses which arose from neg- 
ligent camps, irregular in every thing but indecency ; 
but let it sufiice to say that it existed in such ])a]pa- 



15-i ^ THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

ble form as to draw from him a justly deserved order, 
bitter to all iiltli, but sweet to all cleanliness. It was 
evidently fruitful of some effect, and must have been 
felt by all parties, for njDon the twenty-fourth of the 
month the promnlgator was placed under arrest for 
issning the same. 

On the twenty-third, Company Iv, Captain Morris, 
was detached by General Burnside from the regiment, 
and sent to Bolivar Heights. The admirable manner 
in which their battery was 'handled, and the merito- 
rious service it had performed under the eyes of the 
General rendered it a favorite v^dth him, and there- 
fore it was frequently selected to engage in some ar- 
duous nndertalvino^, or o'o on some darino; reconnois- 
sance ; and the faithful manner in which they always 
conducted themselves encouraged the General to 
remember them in the future. 

The location of the camp at Sharpsburgh did not 
contain accommodations requisite for the sanitary con- 
dition of the men, and the. Colonel deemed it prudent 
to move to some spot which offered the advantages 
required ; and as the whole army was slowly moving 
across the Potomac, a change of camp in that direc- 
tion was alike favorable to the welfare of the re2:i- 
ment and in conformity with the progress of other 
divisions of the army. Accordingly, the '' Mntli " 
was marched across the Antietam, and proceeded on 
the Harper's Ferry road, until, having made a dis- 
tance of seven miles, they pitched camp near the 
Antietam Iron Works. Here was found abundance 
of good water, an essential element for the comfort 
and health of the men. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 155 

The regiment liacl snfiered greatly for tlie want of 
meats and vegetables, and many of the men for that 
reason were wholly unfit for duty. They were always 
assured that there was an abundance somewhere, and 
that it was coming ; so when the train arrived on 
Sunday, well laden with the much-needed provisions, 
they were hailed the loudest by those whose lungs 
were supposed to be weakest for want of them. 

On the third of October, President Lincoln re- 
viewed the " ]^inth," and complimented them very 
highly in the hearing of many distinguished generals. 

On Sunday, the fifth, the band of the regiment, 
in full uniform, went down to the hospital, and spent 
the day in playing for the pleasure of the wounded, 
who were greatly cheered by the fine music, and 
were very thankful for it. 

In camp, the same day, papers were received con- 
taining accounts and illustrations of the charge of the 
Zouaves at Antietam. They differed from each other 
in some respects, but all were unanimous in the be- 
stowal of honor so nobly earned. Says the Sjnrit of 
the Times : " This brilliant and decisive bayonet- 
charge was made about five o'clock in the afternoon 
of Wednesday, the seventeenth of September, and 
will add to the alreadv well-deserved fame of this ad- 
mirably-disciplined regiment, which has been pro- 
nounced by a high military authority ' as a very lucky 
one.' . . . We may mention as a proof of Colo- 
nel Hawkins's esjprit clu corjjs^ that when Governor 
Morgan endeavored to thi'iist a disreputable friend of 
his upon the regiment as a captain, to fill up a va- 
cancy, Hawkins positively refused to recognize the 



156 THE HAWKmS ZOUAVES I 

Governor's authority ; and, backed by liis officers, lie 
trinmplied over that official, althongh the Governor 
was supported b}^ General Williams and others. 
Whenever onr men are treated with the respect due 
to the dignity of freemen, an Ame?'ican regiment 
may he killed^ but it can not be conquered." 

On the 6th of October, the "Mnth" received or- 
ders to cook their rations, and prepare for another 
march ; and on the 7th, about half-past nine a.m., 
tents were struck, the line formed, and the regiment 
got nnder way, Colonel Hawkins being in command 
of the division. It was an np-hill route nearly all the 
way, and although the men started out fresh and 
buoyant, yet the steepness of the ascent called for 
such excessive toil from them, equipped as they were 
in heavy marching order, that a halt for the purpose 
of resting was ordered several times before reacliing 
the summit of the mountain, which is called tlie Elk 
ridge. As the regiment stopped for the second time 
to recover breath, they beheld the ground they had 
passed over stretched out at their feet, the varied 
landscape reaching far and wide, and painted in the 
many hues of autumn, as though summer's floral sun 
was settino; and blossomins: its last and sweetest flow- 
ers. General Burnside was observed ascending the 
mountain ; and as he approached the troops, they all 
bounded to their f^et with instinctive homage, and 
greeted him with prolonged cheers and the Vv^aving 
and throvv^ing np of hats. After he had passed np, 
the " ISTinth " again fell in to the sound of the bugle, 
and following up the winding and precipitous route, 
at length readied the summit, where they drew in re- 



il 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 157 

fresliing draughts of the pure western wind ; and as 
they reclined beneath the spreading chestmit-trees 
and ate their rations, they bent their observation for- 
ward and below into Pleasant Yalley, which they 
were soon to occupy with their camp. 

The column w^as soon again in motion descending 
the other side of the ridge, and after proceeding a 
few miles further, halted by the side of the road, near 
a running stream of water. The location was a very 
desirable one in almost every respect. 
8 



15S THE HAWKIKS ZOUAVES: 



Part Twelfth : 
i^leasani l^alley to Ufal mouth* 

THE regiment remained at this place for some time. 
The rations were insufficient, and the weather 
extremely cold, so that the men conld not help suffer- 
ing a great deal. 

On the 24th, Major Jardine rejoined the "JSTinth," 
having been relieved of the command of the Eighty- 
ninth Xew-York Yolimteers, which office he had 
j&lled since leaving Wasliington. By his soldierly 
conduct and gentlemanly behavior, he had endeared 
himself to the men of that regiment, and they ex- 
ceedingly regretted his departure from them, inas- 
much as it threw them again under the command of 
a dissipated officer, wdiom they could not respect. 

The camp at Pleasant Yalley was left on the 28th, 
and the regiment, equipped in heavy marching^order, 
entered upon a long and tedious march. Many of 
the men wxre in w^ant of shoes, and marching in 
such a state over the cold, stony ground did not add 
any pleasurable excitement to the occasion. But 
they w^ere accustomed to long and rapid marches un- 
der many disadvantages, and they were prepared to 
meet with fortitude the present inconveniences. 
Though there were individual cases of complaint and 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 159 

giving out, jet there prevailed an average buoyancy 
among the men. They passed through Welverton 
and Knoxville, reaching Berlin on the Potomac just 
before noon. At this point they crossed a pontoon, 
and were soon all on Yirginia soil. After a -brief de- 
lay they passed on ; and when they had proceeded 
about one mile beyond Lovettesville, they came to a 
halt and pitched their camp. 

A number of recrnits here joined the regiment, be- 
ing picked men from great numbers raised in I^ew- 
York. By a slow but continual process of recruiting, 
the depleted ranks of the "Xinth" were gradually 
being tilled up, the officers discharging the duties 
of enlistment being particular in regard to the moral 
character of the men received. 

On the 30th, just after sunrise, tents were struck, 
and the men were once more in motion, crossing the 
northern branch of Catoctin Creek, which has its 
source in Yestal's Gap. They soon passed through 
Morrisonville, and reaching Wheatland, they encamp- 
ed in the woods near a stream of water. 

On the following day, Company Gr, commanded by 
Captain Childs, was detached from the regiment, by 
order of General Burnside, and proceeded back to 
Lovettesville, to act as body-guard to the General, 
which position they continued to occupy until the 
26th of Januarv, 1863. 

The First Brigade, composed of the Ninth, Eighty- 
ninth, and One Hundred and Third I^ew-York Yolun- 
teers, and the Tenth ISTew-Hampshire Yolunteers, was 
called out on the 1st of JNTovember, for the purpose of en- 
gaging in a brigade drill. Each regiment, as it arrived 



160 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

iipoii the ground selected, took up its proper po>sition ; 
and when all was in line, Colonel Hawkins rode oppo- 
site the centre and took command of the force, which 
presented a fine appearance, each battalion showing 
its best under the eye of a commander whose rebuke 
they studied carefully to avoid, but whose slightest 
praise they eagerly coveted. At length the brigade 
began to move, executing the orders with promptness 
and precision ; and many of those who had previously 
published the Colonel's incomj^etency to manage a 
regiment, had now a fine opportunity of witnessing 
in what an absurd attitude the error stood. It needed 
but one such occasion to put to flight all doubt as to 
the ability of the Colonel to completely maneuver the 
troops under his command ; and it inspired the men 
with fuller confidence in their leader, although more 
than they had already exhibited was scarcely looked 
for. 

Immediatel}^ after the brigade was dismissed, the 
men were ordered to hold themselves in readiness to 
move again at short notice. Heavy artillery firing 
in the direction of Snicker's Gap gave the order un- 
usual significance, and under the circumstances the 
troops thought that the battle they had long consid- 
ered imminent was about to take place. 

A detail was seut to Harper's Ferry to procure 
clothing for the men, as there was great necessity for 
uniforms. 

The next day the regiment, in heavy marching or- 
der, started out on the road, and proceeded in a direc- 
tion parallel with the Blue Kidge. The small town of 
Purcellsville was passed througli about one o'clock 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 161 

P.M., after which the roar of artillery was more dis- 
tinctly heard, increasing in violence until they had 
crossed the north fork of Goose Creek and arrived 
near Snickersville, when it ceased, the rebels having 
been driven from the Ga]3. After a short rest the 
march was continned, and when night had set in they 
•came to a halt near the town of Union, not far from 
Beaver Dam creek. Fires were made of the rails 
from the fences, and various gronps of soldiers conld 
be seen making their cofiee. Many of the men con- 
tented themselves with swallowing a morsel of food 
from the haversack, and then lay down, too much 
worn ont with the fatigue of the day to care for a 
more plenteous repast, when its preparation called 
for additional toil. 

On the 3d they v^ere again on the march. They 
passed the creek, and took the road for Upperville, at 
which place they encamped, having made a short 
march of twelve miles. 

Heavy cannonading was heard all the day, retreat- 
ing as the Union forces advanced, the rear of the one 
party and the advance of the other being engaged 
almost continually, keeping those who were a little 
further removed from the scene of conflict in a con- 
stant state of alarm and preparation. The weather 
was getting very cold, and the " Ninth " was not yet 
prepared to ineet it, and the frequent removal from 
one place to another denied all opportunity of erect- 
ing proper shelter for protection from the elements. 

On the same day, Captain Morris, of Company K, 
took a section of his battery and joined a brigade un- 
der General Kautz, for the purpose of making a re- 



162 THE. HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

connoissance. They proceeded far up tlie Shenandoah 
river, but failed to draw any attention from the reb- 
els, who were too busy elsewhere. The movement 
was without more interest than was derived from the 
pleasure of making an agreeable trip. 

Early in the morning of the Sth, the regiment was 
ordered again on the march, and after a monotonous 
tramp, which lasted all day, they reached Rector- 
town, where they encamped for the night. 

The next day this place was left far behind, the 
regiment proceeding in a southerly direction, passing 
through the town of Orleans. While General Getty, 
commanding the Third division of the Ninth Army 
Corps, was riding through the town some unknown 
miscreant fired a bullet at him ; but fortunately the 
ball wliistled harmlessly by. So incensed were the 
Zouaves that the dastard should attempt the life of a 
commander they loved so much, that had the search 
for his capture proved successful, he would undoubt- 
edly have been executed upon the spot. 

It being ascertained that lurking parties of rebels 
had banded together in the neighboring wood for the 
pur2:)ose of falling upon defenseless squads of Union 
soldiers, the " Mnth " was ordered to proceed to the 
infected quarter to clear them out. After going a 
few miles from the town they deployed skirmishei's, 
and used every precaution to entrap the wary rebels ; 
but they retreated as the Zouaves advanced. Find- 
ing it -useless, after a weary tramp over hills and 
through woods, they returned to camp near Thumb 
river, where they remained over night. 

The next day, the regiment being under orders to 



THEIP. BATTLES AND MAECHES. 163 

be ready for marcliiiig, tlie men built their fires and 
crowded around tliem, patiently waiting, while they 
discussed the movements of the army. The weather 
was extremely cold, and a heavy snow-storm was pre- 
vailing. Reports of figliting circulated more freely 
than their blood ; and the time was passed in various 
ways until about one o'clock p.m., when knapsacks 
were slung, and they left Orleans, taking the turnpike 
leading south, aud proceeding on it until they arrived 
at Carter's Creek, when they encamped by Gaskin's 
Mills, near Waterloo. 

On the day following, the detail from Harper's 
Ferry arrived, bringing the report that they were un- 
able to procure the clothing so much needed. 

In the afternoon of the 10th an alarm was sounded 
in camp, and the " Ninth " fell in quicklj^, and were 
soon led out on the advance toward the point of dan- 
ger, followed by the rest of the division, when they 
formed in line of battle under a hill. The rebels, not 
likino; this formidable demonstration, turned about 

CD J 

and fled precipitately across the Hedgeman river, in 
tlie direction of Corvin's Cross-Roads. But fearing 
their return witli reinforced ranks, the General gave 
orders iliat the " ISlinth " should remain in the posi- 
tion they had taken up. [N'o fires were allowed, and 
many lacked sufticient clothing to keep them w^arm ; 
to add to the discomfort, there was nothing to eat. 
The night seemed a long one, for the sufl'erings of the 
men were excessive. 

About ten o'clock the next day, the " Ninth " re- 
turned to their camp at Gaskin's Mills. Orders were 
read out on parade that General Barnside, in accord- 



164 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

ance with orders from the War Department, had as- 
sumed command of the Army of the Potomac, xlf- 
ter dismissal much rejoicing was manifested in regard 
'to the order. 

The regiment was again obliged to pass another 
night withont any hard bread. 

Reveille was sounded unnsnally early on the morn- 
ing of the 15th. Tents were struck at five a.m., and 
the regiment left camp, making a halt after it had 
proceeded but a short distance. It was ascertained 
that the enemy were hovering about in strong force, 
only awaiting a favorable opportunity to attack the 
division and capture its train. Companies B and H 
of the " Ninth," and one company from each of the 
other regiments in the brigade, v/ere sent out as an 
advance to keep in check any movement made by tlie 
rebels. The " Xinth " was put in line of battle to 
support Benjamin's battery. At about twelve o'clock 
the enemy made an unsuccessful assault with artillery 
upon the wagon-train, but were driven back from 
their position by the battery. 

At two o'clock P.M., the regiment again marched, 
and in the latter part of the afternoon pitched tents 
near the Warrenton Sulphur Springs. 

Sunday, the 16th, v\^as not a day of rest for the 
Zouaves ; -the wagon-train being sent out at five 
o'clock A.M., they started soon afterward, crossing 
Great river, passing Fayette and Liberty ; then march- 
ing around Warrenton Junction, they encamped near 
the railroad. 

On the ITth, the regiment left the Junction, and 
marched to Steepletown. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 165 

The next clay the men were np at three o'clock a.-m,, 
moving forward, and at niglit were encamped within 
ten miles of Fredericksburgh. 

It rained all day of the lOtli. In the morning the 
'" J^inth" marclied from camp, and just before noon 
passed through Falmouth, and toiling over the first 
hill sonth-east of the railroad,, went into camp upon 
the second, and at once commenced making them- 
selves comfortable. 

For a long time the regiment had marched nearly 
every day, and the men, having been allowed so little 
rest throngh the nights, were now almost worn out. 
The monotony of the march was now to be relieved 
by a few weeks of camp life. The rebels had made a 
stand upon the heights back of Fredericksburgh, and 
the indications were that a battle would soon be 
fought. 

8* 



166 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



Part Thirteenth : 

llfalmoiAth to $uffolH, 

ON the 20t]i of the month Company K rejomed the 
regiment. The weather was extremely cold, 
and rain was almost continually falling, making the 
troops far more nncomfortable than is usually taken 
into account by those who merely reflect upon the 
lists of killed and wounded, without once considering 
the bitter hardships endured up to the loss of life or 
limb. 

On the night of December lOtli orders were re- 
ceived to prepare to march early in the morning. 
The Zouaves retired to rest, and about four o'clock 
A.M. of the eleventh they were quietly awakened by 
the guard, for no reveille was allowed to be beaten. 
They were furnished with rations and thoroughly in- 
spected, after which they remained in readiness many 
hours. The artillery on the heights opened upon the 
enemy, and the troops were in momentary expecta- 
tion of being called upon to engage in the growing 
conflict. The rebel sharp-shooters in the city were 
trying to prevent the laying of pontoons, and against 
them the Federals directed their artillery, until a 
great number of the houses were completely demol- 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAECPIES. 167 

At four o'clock in the afternoon, the '•' Ninth" was 
marched to the heights opposite the cit}^, with the ex- 
pectation of crossing one of the pontoons which had 
been thrown over the river ; but they waited long 
and anxiously in vain, and were marclied back to 
camp after dark, tlirough the deep mud, wearv and 
disgusted with all they had seen of the battle so far. 
They had just made themselves comfortable, each 
man disposed of for the night, when they were or- 
dered to march to the lower pontoon. After wading 
through the mud again they reached it, and crossed 
the river into the city. The regiment countermarched 
and formed in line of battle, afterward bivouacking 
in the main street. Company 13 had been hastily 
thrown forward as picket, and a guard, under Lieu- 
tenant Webster, was posted in the suburbs of the 
lower part of the town. Notwithstanding the troops 
were in the lace of the enemy, there was no excite- 
ment to keep the blood warm, and fires were not per- 
mitted. At length the cold, bitter night wore away, 
and as soon as daylight appeared the artillery again 
oj)ened upon the rebels, who remained comparatively 
quiet until about three o'clock in the afternoon, when 
they replied vigorously, the " Nintli" receiving a por- 
tion of their fire, and also sustaining considerable loss 
from defective shells tin-own by the Union forces. 
Some time after dark they were sent out on picket, 
where they quietly remained until the next morning, 
when they returned to the city. The battle began 
ao:ain, this time rao:in2: with all the fierceness of a 

7 !D yD » 

heavy conflict. Corps after corps was engaged with 
the enemy, and the slaughter was terrible. Thou- 



168 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

sands of brave men had fallen, and the battle was yet 
undecided, when just before dark. Colonel Hawkins 
received orders to charge upon and carry one of the 
enemy's works with his brigade, which Avas composed 
of the " Mnth," Eighty-ninth, and One Hundred and 
Third Is'ew-York Yolunteers, and the Tenth and Thir- 
teenth IsTew-Hampshire, and the Thirty-fifth l^ew- 
Jersey. The " Ninth " had been sent to a diiferent 
part of the field " through a misapprehension of or- 
ders." 

The order was given, and the brigade began to 
advance, making but slow progress, for a deep slough 
and several other impediments were to be passed 
over. But these were overcome, and the troops 
charged in splendid style for some distance-, until an 
old, half filled-up canal-cut presented a serious obsta- 
cle to their further advance, the enemy in the me^n 
time cutting them iip badly with a severe enfilading 
fire. The line was now considerably broken, and a 
great deal of promiscuous firing took place among the 
men. The sun had set, and it was now dark. At 
this time the grandest scene of the battle was to be 
witnessed. The fire on both sides was still kept up, 
and the air was brightly illuminated with a grand 
pyrotechnic display. The darkness put an end to 
the battle, and it became necessary to withdraw the 
troops of the whole division, which was done, the 
'^ Ninth " rejoining the brigade in the city. 

Colonel Hawkins's report contains a concise and 
correct account of the engagement of the brigade. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MxiRCHES. 169 

Falmouth, Va., Dec. 19, 1862. 
Brig. -General George W. Getty, Commanding Third Division 

Ninth Army Corps : 

General : I have the honor to report that on the evening of 
the 10th instant I received orders to send a regiment to support 
the engineers who were to commence laying the bridges across 
the river opposite the town of Fredericksburgh. Early the next 
morning the Eighty-ninth New- York Volunteers was ordered for 
that duty. The regiment took up its position about two o'clock 
on the morning of the 11th instant, where it remained, receiving 
and returning the fire of the enemy from the opposite side of the 
river until about four o'clock in the afternoon. At that time Gen- 
eral Burnside gave orders for a detail of one hundred men from 
the regiment to cross the river in batteaux, for the purpose of 
dislodging the enemy, who were in rifle-pits and houses. The 
detail was made and placed under the charge of Captains J. 
Hazley, S. L. Judd, F. Brutt, and Lieut. W. M. Lewis. The 
whole party immediately embarked in four batteaux, and under 
a heavy fire of musketry pushed across and landed upon the 
opposite shore, where they captured sixty-four prisoners, includ- 
ing four commissioned officers. 

A short time after, the balance of the regiment were sent across 
in the batteaux, and the two detachments being joined together, 
proceeded to the main street of the city, when they threw out 
pickets and bivouacked for the night. 

Too much praise can not be bestowed upon the officers and 
men who so gallantly made the passage of the river. It was 
owing to their daring and boldness that our engineers were en- 
abled to complete the bridge, which they had been at work upon 
since three o'clock; and I trust that favorable mention may be 
made of this occurrence, so that it may be known, for all time to 
come, who they were that performed one of the most daring 
exploits of the war. 

The brigade, after waiting all day of the 11th instant under 
arms, expecting to cross the river, finally received an order, 
about five o'clock p.m., to return to camp. This we obeyed, and 
had been in camp about fifteen minutes when we received an- 



170 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

other order to cross the river. We accordingly got under arms, 
and about nine o'clock p.m. had arrived in Fredericksburgh, tak- 
ing possession of the lower part of the town, and then proceed- 
ing to throw out pickets, which connected with General Howard's 
line on the right. 

Nothing of importance occurred, and no duty w^as performed 
other than that of picketing in front of our lines and guard and 
patrol duty, until about five o'clock p.m. of the 13th instant, 
when the whole brigade was ordered into action. 

My brigade was ordered to attack the right centre of the ene- 
my's line of works. Joining on the left of General Couch's line, 
the brigade commenced to move toward the point of attack, and 
when about one third of the way a halt was made at the railroad- 
cut, where the brigade was re-formed and a new start taken. 
By this time it had become quite dark — in fact, so much so, that 
we could not see a hundred yards before us. But still the order 
was given to move forward, and the whole brigade soon passed 
a deep, wade mud slough, reaching a deep canal-cut. Upon ar- 
riving at this canal-cut the brigade received an enfilading fire 
from the enemy's artillery and infantry ; but notwithstanding, 
the plateau on the other side was gained, the left of the line ad- 
vancing till within about ten yards of a stone wall, behind which 
a heavy infantry force of the enemy was concealed, who opened 
an increased artillery and musketry fire, and in addition to this 
the brigade received the fire of the Eighty-third Pennsylvania 
Volunteers and Twentieth Maine Volunteers, who w^ere on the 
left of General Couch's line, which our right had overlapped. 
This firing from all parties and all directions, I should think, 
lasted about seven minutes, when I succeeded in stopping it, 
and then discovered that every body, from the smallest drum- 
mer-boy up, seemed to be shouting to the full extent of their capa- 
city. After considerable exertion, comparative quiet and order 
were restored, and the command re-formed along the bank of the 
canal-cut. I then reported to you for further orders, and you 
ordered the command withdrawn and placed in its former posi- 
tion in the town, wdiich was done. Owning to a misapprehension 
of your orders, the Ninth New-York Volunteers w^as ordered to 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 171 

the support of a battery, and did not participate in the advance 
made by the brigade. 

The brigade remained at Fredericksburgh until the night of 
the 15th instant, when it returned to the former camp on this 
side of the river. 

Before closing this report I think it my duty to say that the 
brigade did as well as could be expected under the circumstances. 
Even with experienced troops and well- concerted measures there 
will be more or less confusion incident to an advance in the 
dark ; and when the nature of the ground is taken into consider- 
ation, and likewise the fact that two thirds of the men had never 
been under fire before, the}^ are certainly deserving of commen- 
dation for having behaved as well as they did. 

Our loss in the brigade amounted to — killed, twelve ; wounded, 
one hundred and seventy-seven ; missing, fifty-four. Total, two 
hundred and forty-three. A complete list is herev/ith inclosed. 

I am, most respectfully, your obedient servant. 

Rush C. Hawkins, 
Colonel Ninth New- York Volunteers, 
Commanding First Brigade Third Division Ninth Army Corps. 

On Sunday, the litli, tlie " [N'inth was sent out on 
picket, wliere rapid firing was kept up all day on 
both sides, so tliat it was almost impossible to relieve 
the different posts. They were relieved, and again 
returned to the city, taking up their quarters in the 
houses, where they remained until the evening of the 
next day, when, after waiting under orders for several 
hours, they_ marched across the river in great secrecy, 
and took up quarters in their former camp about 
midnight. 

The regiment was sent on picket again, and after 
returning once more to camp, they were ordered to 
get ready for review. During the review. General 
Sumner rode opposite to the centre of the " JSTinth," 



172 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

wliicli was drawn up in line, and asked, " What regi- 
ment is that ?" '' The ISTinth ivTew-York, General." 
" They aee the first soldiees I have seen in six- 
teen TEARS," replied the General. He had seen one 
or more of the old regular regiments together during 
the war with Mexico, and it is presumed this regi- 
ment reminded him of one of them. On the morning 
of the 26th, Company F, Captain Hammill, arrived 
from Plymouth, and marching into camp, rejoined 
the regiment. Thev were cheered heartily, and for 
a while treated as guests among the companies. 
Lieutenant Green was taken by the hand, as they 
remembered how he charged the rebels and drove 
them from Plymouth, and he was repeatedly called 
upon to give his own story of the light. 

On Sunday, the 2Sth, the regiment was reviewed 
by General Burnside. A review, was also ordered on 
the 6th of January, 1863, but, owing to a heavy rain, 
it did not take place, the regiment being dismissed 
upon the arrival of the General. On both occasions 
the same praise was given as the General had before 
frequently expressed. 

The regiment now continued to go on picket every 
few days, while they were under orders to move at 
short notice, cooked rations being kept constantly on 
hand for that purpose. 

On January 26th, Company G, Captain Childs, re- 
turned from detached service as General Burnside's 
body-guard, and rejoined the regiment. 

General Hooker about this time assumed command 
of the Army of the Potomac. 

Major Jardine took command of the Ninth I^ew- 
York. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 178 

On the Ytli claj of February the Zouaves struck 
their tents in a hurry, marched to the raih'oad depot, 
where they sprang into the cars, starting shortly 
for Acquia Creek, where they arrived in a short time, 
and went on board tlie steamer Robert Morris. Early 
the next morning the transport started down the 
Potomac, arriving at Fortress Monroe about noon, 
where anclior was dropped and the regiment re- 
mained until ten o'clock a.m. of the 9th, when they 
went to JSTewports l^ews. 

The barracks at that place, which had been used 
as stables, were given tliem for quarters, and after 
the filth had been cleaned out by a detail of men, the 
Zouaves occupied them. 

On the loth the " I^intli " was detailed as provost- 
guard, and Major Jardine appointed chief provost- 
marshal. 

Some time after. Colonel Hawkins took command 
of his own regiment, preferring to give them his spe- 
cial attention, though the additional duties were ex- 
tremely toilsome. 

Headquarters Ninth New-York Volunteers, 

Newports News, Va., Feb. 28, 1863. 
\ Special Order, 
) No. 24. 

In addition to the duties of brigade commander, I hereby as- 
sume command of the Ninth New-York Volunteers. 

Rush C. Hawkins, Colonel, etc., etc. 
Thomas L. Bartholomeay, 

Post-Adiutant. 

The Fifty-first regiment New-York Yolunteers 
Base Ball Club challenged the Hawkins Zouave Base 



174 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Ball Club, and the matcli was played on the 4th of 
March — a very cold day. The game was called at 
ten o'clock a.m., and was hotly contested for about 
four hours. Much excitement was manifested at the 
close of the last inning, when the Zouave club came out 
three runs ahead. The second nines played a match 
on the 7th, the Zouaves again the winners, taking- 
two thirds of the runs on the score. The first nines 
again played a match on the 24th. At the close of 
the game the score stood : Hawkins Zouave Club, 
twenty-one runs ; Fifty-first Kew-York Club, ten 
runs. 

The greater portion of the Ninth Army Corps had 
left !Newports Xews, and Colonel Hawkins was in 
command of the post. On tlie 2d day of April he 
received orders from General Dix to proceed to Camp 
Hamilton and establish quarters there, which order 
was executed the following day. 

About one week after, the regiment was on the 
move for Suffolk. They went by boat to Portsmouth, 
where they landed at the Long Branch Dock early in 
the morning ; and after waiting until evening, they 
began their march to Suffolk. It was not a very 
pleasant afiair, but they succeeded in getting through 
it, as they had with all the other marches, and ar- 
rived at tlie besieged place in the night, having ac- 
complished a distance of nearly thirty miles. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 175 



f 



ART Fourteenth : 
^r^agedv} — Obsequies. 



IT was upon tliis fatal nio-lit that the unfortunate 
occurrence between Lieut.-Colonel Kimball and 
General Corcoran took place. We give Corcoran's 
letter, which he addressed to Colonel Hawkins m re- 
gard to the aifair, as it contains a connected account 
of it, and is the substance of tlie evidence adduced 
before the court of inquiry. 

To Colonel Kcsn C. Hawkins, Commanding the Ninth New- 
York Volunteers, Hawkins Zouaves : 

Colonel : To prevent any misapprehensions, I send you a 
brief statement in relation to the sad affair of Sunday morning, 
which resulted, I regret to say, in the death of Lieut. -Colonel 
Edgar A. Kimball. 

At about a quarter before three o'clock a.m. I left my quar- 
ters, and proceeded along the main road toward the front lines, 
for the purpose of having the troops under arms at three o'clock, 
in obedience to an order from the Major-General commanding. 
When I arrived opposite the hospital of my brigade, an officer, 
whose rank I could not recognize, (the night being ver}'- dark,) 
and whom I judged jo be such only from the fact of his having 
a sword, rushed out in front of me and ordered a halt. Halting, 
I asked if it was Dr. Heath, (one of the surgeons of the Irish 
Legion,) and was answered by another order to halt, with the 
additional remark, " It is none of your business. I want 



176 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

the countersign." Perceiving it was not the Doctor, I requested 
to know the object of his halting me, and his name, rank, and 
other authorit}^, but could not obtain any other reply than that 

it was none of my business. I repeated the questions 

several times and received similar answers, with the exception 
that the countersign was not demanded more than once ; and he 
said, "You can not pass here." I expostulated with him on 
such conduct, and told him to remember that he was not on 
duty, and had no right to be there and stop me from proceeding, 
and that he must let me pass. I asked him if he knew who he 
was talking to, and then gave him my name and rank, telling 
him also that I was going to the front under orders, and even 
my business there, but it was of no avail. He answered : " I do 

not care who you are." I again told him that I should 

pass, and warned him several times to get out of my way, ^nd 
attempted to proceed. He thereupon put himself in a deter- 
mined attitude to prevent my progress, and brandishing his 
sword in one hand, and having his other on a pistol, as I then 
supposed, made a movement toward me with the evident design 
of using them, making an impolite statement that I should not 
pass. It was at this point that I used my weapon. It seemed 
that the more I endeavored to persuade, the more obstinate he 
became. Nothing but the consideration that my life was in 
danger, which I had every reason to fear, and the duty that was 
incumbent upon me at that particular time, when an attack upon 
our lines was apprehended, would have justified me in my own 
mind in taking the measure I then did. As a soldier of long 
service, I am convinced that you will recognize the necessity 
and lawfulness of the act, however much you may regret that it 
was caused by one of your own number, and no one does so 
more than myself. Although I had never before seen Lieut.- 
Colonel Kimball that I am aware of, I had learned to respect 
him for his gallantry in several engagements of the present war. 
It was not until after the occurrence that t learned vrho it v»'as ; 
but had he been my best friend, I can not see how it'would have 
resulted otherwise from the part he acted on the occasion. 
With no authority to demand the countersign, I would have 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 177 

been derelict in my duty had I yielded to his demand. His re- 
fusal to give me his name, rank, or any information about him, 
or upon what authority, if an}^, he assumed to act, (the fact 
being, as you are well aware, that he had none,) especially as 
his request was couched in the terms I have stated, and the 
enemy immediately in our front, called upon me to act with more 
than ordinary precaution in revealing the countersign, and not 
unless to one entitled to it. But besides, the personal violence 
I had just cause to fear gave undoubted right to protect myself 
against it. I intended to have sent this statement before, but 
my duties for the past two days have prevented it, and I have 
now been obliged to make it hurriedly, hoping thereb)" to correct 
any erroneous impressions that may have been made, and to 
prevent them in future. 

I will only be too glad to have an official investigation of the 
matter at any time. I am. Colonel^ your obedient servant, 

Michael Corcoran, 

Brigadier-General. 

'No doubt may have existed in military circles as 
to the legality of the act committed by General Cor- 
coran. He was set upon while in the performance of 
duty by some one to him unknown, the individual 
drawing a sword and threatening the life of a superior 
officer. In view of such fact alone there might be 
some justification in taking life. 

But Kimball was alone, while Corcoran was accom- 
panied by his staff. The General stepped consider- 
ably below the dignity of his office in bickering with 
an unknown person, when it was in his power to have 
arrested him, which would have been quite as military 
as wdiat he did. 

But there is a question of humanity in the affiiir. 
He took the life of an individual who, under the cir- 
cumstances, was without the power of doing harm. 



178 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Surrounded as he was bv officers of excellent reputa- 
tion and liigli personal character, who, in the most 
aggravating case, would have allowed the considera- 
tion of the rights of man preference above all others, 
he proved himself recreant to their influence, and 
committed a deed that brought down upon him al- 
most universal censure. If his presence at the front 
was required in such haste, it was a portion of his 
duty to have immediately arrested the offender, (which 
he could easily have done,) that he might proceed 
without delay to the execution of the orders given 
him, instead of wasting five or ten minutes by talking 
in the manner he says he did. 

But the justice he denied to a fellow-being overtook 
him at last : he fell from his horse one night and 
broke his neck, and the cause of the event was no 
more flattering to him than the conduct he attributed 
to the deceased Lieut.-Colonel would have been to 
any officer or gentleman. 

Therefore, in the general working of Providence, it 
may be presumed that the censure General Corcoran 
everywhere met with was justly accorded. 

The body of Lieut.-Colonel E. A. Kimball was care- 
fully embalmed and forwarded to New- York, under 
a proper escort detailed from the regiment. Having 
arrived in the city, the remains were met at the foot 
of Cortlandt street by a detachment of the Seventy- 
first Regiment IN^ational Guard. The body wasnext 
taken to the City Hall, where it was laid out in state. 
Ten men of Company C of the Seventj^-first acted as 
a guard of honor during the night, and were relieved 
by a detail from the Sixty-ninth. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 170 

The wounded members of the " ISTinth " (there 
being quite a number of them in the city at the time) 
held a meeting and passed resolutions of condolence 
at the death of their companion in arms. 

Before the remains left the Governor's room a lady 
entered, bringing in her arms a basket filled vrith 
flowers of the most delightful perfume, and strewed 
them upon the coffin. The dog of the deceased sol- 
dier, which had followed its master through the war, 
was crouched beneath the coffin, desolate and in- 
consolable. 

On the afternoon in which the funeral took place a 
vast crowd had assembled around the City Hall, and 
the regiments that were to take part in the proces- 
sion were drawn up in line opposite to it. The coffin, 
around which the American colors had been taste- 
fully wrapped, was brought out by six dark-skinned 
Zouaves and deposited in the hearse. 

The flags upon the public buildings and the ship- 
ping were at half-mast, and a remarkable degree of 
solemnity prevailed. The route of the procession was 
taken up, and the remains were conveyed to Green- 
wood with considerable pomp, the funeral being a 
very imposing one. 



180 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES 



Part Fifteenth : 
Suffolk to low-'Sfotjli* 

SHOETLY after their arrival at Suffolk the 
" ISTintli " was sent to Fort Xansemond, which 
was designated by General Keyes, then commanding 
that department, as a post of honor. This " post of 
honor " had been so carefully constructed by some 
stupid engineer as to be commanded by a hill in the 
immediate front. The rebel General Longstreet, who 
w^as besieging the place with an army of thirty thou- 
sand troops, availed himself of the advantages offered 
by this elevation. Rifle-pits occupied every point of 
ground suitable for the object of directing a fire upon 
the fort, some of them being only a few rods from it ; 
and the sharp-shooters Avho were in them used their 
rifles so constantly that the Zouaves were obliged to 
keep under cover all the while, excepting at such 
times when the rebels were becoming too mischiev- 
ous, or were gaining too many advantages, wdien they 
would spring up and open their artillery upon the 
rifle-pits, dropping the shell into them with such 
effect as to cause the enemy to sj)ring nimbly out and 
scamper away, not, however, without great loss to 
their numbers ; some would be blovvn in pieces, and 
others picked off, while yet in their flight, by the ready 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 181 

rifles of tlie Zouaves, But tliey would returu again ; 
and whenever the musketry from the fort failed to 
make an impression on tliem, the heavier guns were 
resorted to at once, invariably accomplishing the ob- 
ject of driving them back ; and this method met with 
such continual success as to convince the enemy that 
a respectful distance was more desirable, and they 
accordingly sighted their rifles for a more distant aim. 
But thev were not, for all that, to 'remain unmolest- 
ed, frequent sortie-parties being sent out to attack 
them. 

The siege was prosecuted vigorously on a scale of 
great magnitude, but the strategy of the enemy was 
everywhere successfully met by the vigilant defend- 
ers. The most active engagements between the two 
forces transpired near or in front of Fort I^ansemond. 

Picket-firing was kept up by the rebels throughout 
the entire sieo-e. Althouojh mutual agreements " not 
to fire " were frequently entered into, yet the rebels 
continually dissolved them, the Texas and South- 
Carolina troops being the most vindictive, seeking 
every chance to fire upon the unsuspecting Union 
soldier. 

While in this fort the " Xinth " had ample oppor- 
tunity of acquiring a knowledge of defensive warfare. 
It is true that they liad been under the instruction of 
General Phelps at JN^ewports I^ews, who put them 
through interesting drills upon the fortifications of 
that place, in anticipation of" an attack from General 
Magruder ; but nothing instructs so well as actual 
experience. They now had the privilege of putting 
their practice to the test ; and could General Phelps 
9 



182 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

but have seen tliem, lie would have felt repaid for tlie 
trouble he had in teaching them. 

The Zouaves were constantly harassed day and 
night bj the enemy, scarcely an hour passing with- 
out a portion of the regiment being engaged in some 
excitement. Although the numbers in hilled and 
wounded were comparatively small, yet it is ques- 
tioned if to pass several weeks nnder incessant fire, 
worried by a thousand dreaded anticipations, was a 
better choice of warfare than a short and decisive 
conflict, where all is ended in a few hours. In all 
their previous engagements they had charo-ed upon 
the enemy, and it is not strange that they should at 
this place have experienced some pleasant satisfac- 
tion at being placed in a contest where the enemy 
was expected to charge upon them. 

Company K vas for some time in charge of Fort 
Halleclv, where they handled their guns often and 
well, doing great damage to the enemy. At one time 
the rebels were secretly erecting a battery up the 
Nansemond river, which was concealed by a small 
but thick wood. The movement was strongly sus- 
pected, and Company K went at once to the extreme 
left, and immediately began the construction of a bat- 
tery, with far greater secrecy, directly opposite. 
When the rebels had completed their work and were 
ready to use it, they cut away the woods and oj^ened 
fire upon the Union lines. But the Zouaves had 
worked with spirit, and in the anticipation of defeat- 
ing the enemy's design, had constructed their work 
with haste, and were prepared for them. Clearing 
away the trees in front. Captain Morris gave his com- 



i 



thp:ir battles and marches. 183 

pany the command to fire, and they at once opened 
upon the rebels with heavy shell. They were com- 
pletely astonished, and in a short time their battery 
was silenced. They plainly saw that the Zouaves 
were good at flank movements. To them every fiery 
cap seemed to send an ignited shell among them. 

But the term of service forwdiich the regiment was 
sworn in w^as now about to expire ; and between the 
shot and shell of the enemy they entertained the hap- 
piest anticipations of once again enjoying peace at 
home, for the full realization of wdiicli they had fought 
battles and won victories. While in the midst of this 
pleasant hope a communication was received from 
General Dix, requesting them to remain a few days 
after their term was served out. 

The address was read to the diiferent companies 
separately, and a vote taken upon it. They unani- 
mously declined the honor of serving longer, and de- 
cided to go home. 

The ofiicers of the regiment also took proj^er steps 
in the matter. Below are the resolutions adopted at 
a meeting held by them : 

At a meeting of the field and line officers of the Ninth New- 
York YoLUNTEERS, held in camp at Suffolk, Ya., April 30th, 
1863, Colonel Rush C. Hawkins in the chair, 

The address of Major-General John A. Dix to the soldiers of 
the Ninth New-York Yolunteers, under date of the 28th instant, 
and the telegraphic dispatch from Major-General Dix, under date 
of the 30th instant, were read, and after due consideration it was 
unanimously 

BesoUed, That, under the peculiar circumstances in which 
the regiment is at present situated, the request of Major-General 



18i THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Dix to remain for a longer period than its term of service be re 
spectfully but firmly declined. 

Resolved^ That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to 
Major-General John A. Dix. 

Rush C. HAWKms, 
Colonel Ninth New-York Volunteers, Chairman. 
0. W. Paeisen, 

First Lieutenant Ninth New-York Volunteers, 

Secretary. 

The appeal and compliment aiy order of General 
Dix: 

Headquarters, Department Virginia, 

Seventh Army Corps, Fort Monroe, Va., 

x\pril 28, 1863. 

To the Ninth Regiment New-York Volunteers : 

Soldiers : The term for which you were mustered into the 
United States service expires five days from to-day. You are 
entitled to transportation to New-York, where you will be mus- 
tered out. It will be furnished on the day you ask for it. But 
you are now holding a post of honor in the face of the enemy. 
Your experience and your gallantry upon numerous battle-fields, 
and your familiarity with the special service which has been as- 
signed to you, make it vitally important that you should remain 
a few days — long enough, at least, to supply your place by an- 
other regiment. I appeal to you, therefore, for the sake of the 
cause you are upholding, and by the honorable name you have 
won, to give a short time more to your country in this emergency. 
Nothing would so gratify the enemy whom 3'^ou have so often 
encountered and put to rout as to see you laying down your 
arms, and leaving yonv comrades in other regiments and corps to 
abide the issue of the assault he is meditating ; and let me say, 
in all frankness, that nothing would be less grateful to the hosts 
of friends at home, who are waiting with gratulating hands and 
welcoming voices to greet your return, and to testify, by the re- 
ception they will give you, how much they owe yon for uphold- 
ing, with courage and devotion unsurpassed, your country's 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 185 

honor and 3'our own. . I would not ask 3'ou to remain a single 
day bej^ond the expiration of your term of service, if I did not 
feel, under the circumstances in which you are placed, that it 
was due to 3^ourselves as well as to the cause. I do not ask you 
to decide now ; take time to consider what I propose to you, and 
advise me at an early day. I have some claim to your confi- 
dence. I was the first general officer who received you when 
you were organized. You went to the field under my orders. 
The chances of war have again placed you under my command, 
when 3'our term of service is expiring. I feel, therefore, that I 
have more than an ordinary interest in your fortune and in the 
good name you have earned ; and you will believe me when I 
say that I could make no appeal to you, nor give you any coun- 
sel which I did not think due alike to your country and your- 
selves. John A. Dix, Major-General. 

The appended reply from Colonel Hawkins to Ma- 
jor-General Dix fully satisfies ns with the action 
taken by the regiment in regard to the touching ap- 
peal of their General : 

Headquarters, Fort Nansemond, 
Suffolk, Ya., April 30, 1863. 
Major-Genera L John A. Dix, Commanding Department of 

YlRGINIA : 

General : Your address of the 28th instant to the regiment 
which I have the honor to command calls for a reply. 

As a regiment we feel that we have performed all our country 
has any right to expect or demand. Our contract has been ful- 
filled to the letter. From the first moment of our taking the 
field we have been in the face of the enemy, never having been 
in a fort, garrison, or camp of instruction, where we could have 
the opportunity of drilling. Our home has been in the field, 
where all the exposures and hardships incident to a soldier's life 
have been endured without a murmur. No matter how hard or 
difficult the service we have been called upon to perform, it has 
always been done cheerfully and with alacrity. 



186 THE HAWKINS Z0UAYE3 : 

The most of ni}^ officers and men have a home drcle of anx- 
ious relatives who are expecting to see them return at the ear- 
liest moment after the term of their service expires. None of 
them have even thought we should be called upon to remain 
longer. Our situation has always been such that it would not 
have been consistent with the interests of the service to grant 
furloughs ; the consequence is, not five per cent of the enlisted 
men have been home since they entered the service. It is now 
quite natural that they should desire to return, rather than run 
the risk of being killed in another action after their time has ex- 
pired. 

I think you will admit that a regiment which has changed its 
camp twenty -nine times, spent five months on the sand-banks of 
Hatteras, and lost over four hundred men, killed and wounded, 
in two years, deserves some little consideration from the Govern- 
ment, and the people who remain at home in easy chairs. 

When the first gun was fired at Sumter, we jumped to arms 
with all the eagerness and enthusiasm of youth. We asked no 
bounty. No hope of reward was held out to us. We felt that 
our country was in danger, and needed our support. We loved 
our country and ifs noble history then, and we love it now ; but 
we feel that others who have remained in the back-ground should 
step forward to the front and supply our place. 

The " post of honor" is not new to us. We have had it be- 
fore, and paid for it dearly with the lives of many of the noblest 
youths our country ever possessed. Individual courage and 
bravery have all gone for naught. The imbecility of many high 
commanding officers in the field has cast a damning blight and 
disgrace over the graves of our brave countrymen. Taking into 
consideration the fact that we have been here nearly three weeks, 
and that ample time has elapsed to have supplied our place, we 
do not think it incumbent upon us to remain longer than the 
third day of May, the day upon which our term of service ex- 
pires. I, therefore, on behalf of the regiment, call for trans- 
portation to be furnished to us at that time. If on account of 
this refusal to comply with your request we go home in disgrace, 
and meet thorns where we had expected to find flowers, we must 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 187 

bear up under it with the same courage which has characterized 
ail our actions since we became defenders of our country's honor. 
I am, with tlie highest esteem and personal consideration, 3'our 
most faithful servant, Rush C. Hawkins, 

Colonel Ninth New-York Volunteers. 

Tba day succeeding tliat on wliicli General Dix re- 
ceived tlie reply of Colonel Hawkins, tlie " j^intli " 
was relieved by tlie Sixth Massachusetts, and they 
now held themselves in readiness to depart for J^cw- 
York, where they would be mustered out. It was at 
this time that General Getty issued a farewell and 
complimentary address to the regiment. They had 
been under his w^atchful ej'e for several months, and 
he had learned to value those superior soldierly qual- 
ities which they everywhere exhibited. 

Headquakters, Third Division Ninth Army 
Corps, Suffolk, Va., May 2, 1863. 
j General Orders, ) 
] No. 27. \ 

After two years of constant field service, the Ninth regiment 
Nevv'-York State Volunteers are now about to return home, their 
term of service having expired. Among the first to spring to 
arms at their country's call, they now return home after two 
years of faithful and gallant service, with the heartfelt satisfac- 
tion of having done their dutj^, with the praises of their friends, 
and the admiration of the enemy ; and with Hatteras, Roa- 
noke, Camden, South-Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburgh, 
and Suffolk inscribed on their banners. 

Fare 3'ou well ! brave and faithful comrades ! The best wish- 
es of those you leave follow you, and will unite with the cheers 
of the thousands who will greet jonr triumphant march through 
your native citj^, to do you the honor you have so richly earned. 
By command of George W. Getty, 

Brigadier-General. 

Captain Gardiner, Assistant Adjutant-General. 



188 THE HAVfKIXS ZOUAVES: 

On the 3d clay of May the " Mnth " left SiilFolk, 
and proceeded to Norfolk, thence to Fortress Monroe, 
where they received transportation to the place of 
their enlistment. The people of IS'^ew-York were 
notified of the expected arrival of the Zonaves by 
the following extract from a paper of May fifth : 

" The regiment will arrive in this city to-day. Extensive ar- 
rangements have been made in order to give the gallant corps an 
enthusiastic reception. Several fire companies, both of New- 
York and Brooklyn, have volunteered to turn out on the occa- 
sion. The Twelfth Regiment, National Guard, will also parade 
in honor of the returning heroes. Thc}^ come on the steamer 
Kennebec, and may be expected to land about nine o'clock a.m. 
A meeting of the wounded and friends of the regiment was held 
at 25 Carmine street yesterday afternoon, and arrangements 
were made for the ex-members, wounded, and friends, to turn 
out i>pon the occasion. The Zouaves will be commanded by 
Colonel Hawkins."^ 

The regiment when at Fortress Monroe received 
orders^ from the War Department to leave their arms 
and eqnipments at that place. The orders were coun- 
termanded, but not until it was too late, and the 
Zouaves were far out at sea. This was something 
they had not looked for. They had long enjoyed the 
expectation of returning home crowned with honors, 
to be proudly received in their native city. Bat they 
were now ashamed of this action of the Government, 
for which they had undergone so mucli hardship, and 
braved so many dangers, and they could scarcely be- 

* The order was so unfavorably received by both soldiers and citi- 
zens, that the War Department decided that in the future soldiers should 
retain their arms and equipments until mustered out. 



4 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 189 

lieve it was so ungrateful as to place them in the at- 
titude of cowards before those from whom they ex- 
pected cheers of welcome. It was for the purpose of 
securing them the necessary arms and equipments 
that the wounded held the meeting alluded to; " Our 
brave comrades shall not come home like uniformed 
convicts, as though they have been guilty of some 
crime against their country !" The muskets were 
procured and taken to the dock, where the Zouaves 
landed and gladly received them. 
9* 



190 THE UATVKlKii ZOUAVES: 







Part Sixteenth : 
F tlieir reception it lias been said : 



"After a severe and gallant campaign, the Ninth New- 
York Vokinteers (more familiarly known as the Hawkins Zouaves) 
arrived in this city at an early hour yesterday morning. They 
were the recipients of a cordial and well-deserved welcome at the 
hands of the people, although the weather interfered somewhat 
with the arrangements Vvhich had been made to give the Zouaves 
a large and imposing escort. They landed at the Battery, where 
was assembled a vast number of people, who cheered them as 
they came from the steamer. At this time the Twelfth Regiment, 
National Guard, had reached the spot, accompanied by a fine 
band ; and the line of procession was immediately taken up 
through Broadway to Fourteenth street ; and although the rain 
came down rather disagreeabl}^ it did not deter immense crowds 
from turning out in order to welcome the returning heroes. The 
soldiers looked exceedingly hearty after their arduous campaign, 
and bore the evident marks of well- disciplined veterans, as well 
as men who were able and willing to do the bravest deeds when 
necessary. Two bands of music accompanied the procession, 
and several private societies also took part in the turn-out. The 
regiment numbered about four hundred men, and was command- 
ed by Colonel Hawkins, who was quite warmly received upon 
being recognized by the crowd." 

Yolumes of eulogies were passed upon the regi- 
ment and freelj^ circulated. They are all summed up 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 191 

in tli8 fact that tlie Zouaves v\'ere the most soldierly 
body of men returned from the war. Veterans usu- 
ally returned dirty ; but about the persons of the 
Zouaves there was observed a uniform cleanliness, 
and their clothing was neat, though considerably 
patched. 

The " E'inth" had been in the city but a few days 
wdien Colonel Hawkins issued an order relative to 
the death of Colonel Benjamin Ringold, of the One 
Hundred and Third ^ew-York Yolunteers. This re- 
giment had long been in the same brigade with the 
Zouaves, and the many incidents of battles, skirmishes, 
and marches had aroused mutual friendship between 
the two regiments — -one strictly American, and the 
other more decidedly German in composition and 
character. The death of the Colonel was deeply 
lamented by the soldiers and the circle of friends at 
home in which he had once moved. 

Headquarters Ninth New- York Volunteers, 
48 Pine Street, New-York City, May 11, 1863. 
(Special Orders.) 

The regiment will assemble at the arsenal, corner Thirty -fifth 
street and Seventh avenue, at half-past nine o'clock a.m., on the 
loth instant, for the purpose of attending the funeral of their 
late lamented companion in arms, Colonel Benjamin Ringold, of 
the One Hundred and Third New-York Yolunteers. The drum- 
corps and lifers, without the di'um-major, will assemble with the 
regiment. The field and staff will be mounted, and the officers 
and enlisted men will wear white gloves. 

B}^ order Eusii C. Hawkins, Colonel. 

TnoMAs L. Bartholomew, Adjutant. 

The regiment turned out in fiill numbers, and made 



192 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES : 

a very fine appearance. Tlie remains of the deceased 
were escorted tlirouo^li tlie city with due solemnity, 
and deposited in their last resting-place. 

The " Ninth " was mustered out of service and 
paid oif by company at the old arsenal in White 
street, in the latter part of May. 

About one hundred and fifty of the Zouaves imme- 
diately reenlisted, with Major Jardine at their head, 
the design being to organize a new regiment ; but the 
misfortune which their commander met with shortly 
afterward somewhat interfered with the contemplated 
object. 

At the July riots a battalion of the Zonaves, under 
command of Major Jardine, shouldered their muskets 
and turned out to assist in quelling the disturbance. 
They fired low and fast into the insane mob, doing 
admirable execution. Major Jardine was severely 
wounded, and afterward came near losing his life 
at the hands of the fiendish Irish. It is deeply re- 
gretted that an excellent soldier, who had passed 
safely through so many battles, should, after return- 
ing from the war, be maimed for life by those very 
men whose lives and homes he had fought to protect. 

He was no longer able to command the Zouaves 
who had reenlisted ; they consequently joined the 
Seventeenth New- York Yolunteers, then in the army 
of General Sherman, and passed with it through the 
most memorable campaign of the world. 

Others afterward reenlisted in various regiments, 
and many were either killed or wounded. 

Detachments of the regiment have turned out upon 
a number of occasions since its return from the war. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 193 

and the interest manifested by the public in its early 
career was maintained upon every occasion. 

The surviving members formed themselves into an 
association known as the Hawkins Zouave Associa- 
tion. An extract from Article 1st of the By-Laws 
reads as follows : 

" Its object shall be to bring together, in civil relations, those 
v/ho were joined in defense of their country under the banner of 
the Ninth New-York Volunteers, with the view of continuing 
the friendships there contracted and cemented by the vicissitudes 
of a soldier's life." 

In the summer of 1865 the few remaining members 
of the regiment began the organization of a Zouave 
militia regiment. E'one but veterans who had served 
in the late war were eligible to membership. The 
companies filled up with a quickness unprecedented 
in the formation of any militia regiment. 

They have received their charter, being denomin- 
ated the First Eegiment E'ew-York State National 
.Guard, attached to the Third Brigade, and are com- 
manded by Colonel Hawkins. Their first a^jpearance 
in public will be hailed with acclamations, for wdth 
the commencement of their organization dates a new 
era in the history of the State militia. 



194 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



Part Seventeenth ; 

(^ompantj [If at it^^ltjmouth. 

THE company, under command of Captain Ham- 
mill, was ordered on an expedition to Plymouth, 
J^orth-Carolina, for wliicli place they embarked from 
Koanoke Island on June 11th, 1862. They kept up 
a continual reconnoissance about the town until the 
30th of the month, when they rejoined the regiment. 
As soon, however, as they could be replenished with 
the necessities requisite for being on detached service, 
they again went to Plymouth and took up their quar- 
ters as garrison of the town. 

Captain Hammill learned that the enemy were en- 
deavoring to make themselv^es a secure position in the 
town of Hamilton, and in company with the com- 
mander of the fleet on the Poanoke river, he deter- 
mined to dislodge them. The company embarked on 
board the gunboats Commodore Perry, Ceres, and 
Shawsheen, and proceeded in the direction of the 
enemy without molestation, until they had reached 
Painbow Bluffs, just below the town. Here the reb- 
els opened a severe fire upon the boats passing below, 
wounding Lieutenant Green. But the fleet succeed- 
ed in reaching Hamilton, where the company landed, 
and in a bloodless skirmish drove the rebels from the 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 195 

town far into the adjoining country. After making 
themselves masters of the place, they returned to 
Plymouth. 

One month later, Captain Hammill, with a detach- 
ment of his comjDany, went on an expedition up the 
Chowan river. They took from the enemy a large 
quantity of cotton and bacon, without any loss to 
themselves^ and returned to camp the following 
day. 

The greater portion of the inhabitants at Plymouth 
professed to be loyal to the Government, and from 
among them Colonel Hawkins, with the assistance of 
Lieutenant Flusser of the navy, had succeeded in or- 
ganizing a battalion of several hundred men, to pro- 
tect the town from the contemplated attacks of the 
rebels. Much difficulty was met with in making ar- 
rangements to supply them with arms and munitions ; 
but after perseverance the obstacles were overcome, 
and several companies were formed and placed under 
the command of Captain Hammill. 

It was not known how soon the rebels, who were 
increasing in numbers in that part of the State, would 
venture to attack the town. 

An alarm spread through camp one night. The 
movements of the enemy were suspicioned. A loyal 
native arrived at the post in haste, and communicated 
to Captain Hammill the alarming intelligence that 
the rebels, with a large force of cavalry and infantry, 
estimated at fourteen hundred serviceable men, had 
approached within three miles of the place and bivou- 
acked, intending at early dawn to surprise and burn 
the town. As soon as the news reached headquar- 



196 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

ters all was bustle and activity, in making prepara- 
tion for a stubborn resistance. 

Unfortunately, Captain Hammill was too ill to 
take command of his company ; the First Lieutenant 
was also sick with the fever ; and the Second Lieuten- 
ant was not yet recovered from the wound received 
at Rainbow Bluffs ; consequently the whole command 
devolved upon First Sergeant Green. Several sailors 
from the navy volunteered their assistance in the ap- 
proaching fight. 

'No time was to be lost, and Sergeant Green quick- 
ly resolved upon the course to be pursued. He as- 
sembled his little army and marched out to meet the 
enemy, proceeding to their bivouac in a manner suf- 
ficiently cautious to effect a surprise. When they 
had arrived near enough, Sergeant Green gave the 
word of command, and the Zouaves, Carolinians, and 
sailors sprang upon them, at the same time pouring 
into the confused host a deadly volley of musketry ; 
and so rapidly was the fire kept up, that the enemy 
could not recover from the surprise, and in a short 
time they turned and fled in the utmost confusion, 
leaving a great number of killed and wounded upon 
the spot. They were pursued, many of them being 
cut down in their flight ; and to this day they will 
not acknowledge that they were defeated by so small 
a force. 

Thirty of the rebels were killed outright, and the 
usual proportion were wounded. The prisoners cap- 
tured were Colonel Garret, commanding the infantry, 
Lieutenant Fagan, commanding the cavalry, and forty 
enlisted men, besides thirty of the horses belonging 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 197 

to Fagan's mounted squad. The loss sustained by 
the force under Sergeant Green was three men killed 
— Sergeant Miner, of the Zouaves ; Charles Lewis, gf 
the I^orth-Carolina militia ; and one of the sailors, 
name unknown. 

This was a bold stroke well executed, and of great 
service to the Union arms in that communitv. Short- 
ly afterward. Sergeant Green was deservedly pro- 
moted to a lieutenancy. 

In November Company F. under its Captain, em- 
barked on the gunboats Hunchback and Commodore 
Perry, and proceeded to Williamston, where it united 
with the command of General Foster, which w^as 
already formed to attack the enemy. From this place 
they marched to Tarboro, and after accomplishing the 
object for which they set out, they returned to their 
boats and sailed for Plymouth. 

Tliey occupied the town until the following Decem- 
ber, when they left it and joined the regiment at Fab 
mouth, Virginia. • 



198 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



Part Eighteenth : 
r^hi of Killed, Mountled, and 3:^ccea$ea of the VMh, 

Colonel Kush C. Ha-wkixs, wounded, left arm, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Lieut.-Colonel E. A. Kimball, wounded at Antietam, killed at Suf- 
folk, April 12, 1863. 

Major E. Jardino, wounded, both legs, Camden, April 19, 1SG2. 

Adjutant Charles A. Gadsden, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Captain A. S. Graham, Co. A, Avounded, arm and leg, Camden, April 
19, 1862. 

Captain William G. Barnett, Co. B, wounded, hand and thigh, Antie- 
tam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Captain Otto W. Parisen, Co. C, wounded, knee, Antietam, Sept. 17, 
1862. 

Captain William H. Hammill, Co. F, wounded, left arm, Camden, 
April 19, 1862. 

Captain Charles Child, Co. G, wounded, foot, Antietam, Sept. 17, 
1862. 

Captain Lawrence Leahy, Co. I, wounded, shoulder, Antietam, Sept. 
17, 1862. 

First Lieut. Victor Klingsoehr, Co. A, wounded, leg, Camden, April 
19, 1862. 

First Lieut. R. McKecknie, Co. H, Avounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

First Lieut. William H. Ennis, Co. C, died on Potomac, August 10, 
1862. 

Second Lieut. M. J. Graham, Co. A, right leg amputated, Antietam, 
Sept. 17, 1862. 



THEIR BATTLES AND MAKCHE3. 199 

Second Lieut. Thomas L. Bartholome\v, Co. B, wounded, head, Cam- 
den, April 19, 1862. 

Second Lieut. Frank Powell, wounded, breast, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Second Lieut. A. P. "Webster, wounded, arm, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 

Second Lieut. G. W. Debevoice, Co. A, wounded, spine, Roanoke, 
Feb. 8, 1862. 

Second Lieut. Ed. Cooper, Co. C, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Second Lieut. R. A. Burdctt, Co. G, wounded, heel, Antietam, Sept. 
17,1802. 

Second Lieut. — Green, Co. F, wounded, Plymouth, X. C. 

Second Lieut. George H. Herbert, Co. K, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 
17, 1SG2. 

Sergt.-Major A. Dusenberry, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
Color-Sergeant Sebastian Myers, wounded, Antietam, Sept, 17, 1862. 
Quartermaster Sergeant John B. Pannes, wounded, neck, Antietam, 
Sept. 17, 1862. 

Hospital Steward Thomas B. Justice, died, Hatteras, Oct. 14, 1861. 

First Sergt. 0. B. Forbes, Co. A, wounded, thigh, Antietam, Sept. 
17, 1862, lived in constant agony, and died eight months after. 
First Sergt. Edwin Dews, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
First Sergt. Geayer, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Sergt. Salisbury, Co. A, wounded, near heart, Antietam, Sept. 

17, 1862. 

Sergt. James A. Watson, Co. A, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Sergt. John H. E. Whitney, Co. B, wounded, left ileum, Antietam, 
Sept. 17, 1862. 

Sergt. Benjamin F. Stites, Co. C, vrounded, foot, Antietam, Sept. 17, 
1862. 

Sergt. Peter Searing, Co. D, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Sergt. James Fitzgerald, Co. D, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Sergt. Van Sych, Co. E, wounded, thigh, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 

Sergt. Louis Jacobson, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Sergt. James D. Keating, Co. E, " 

Sergt. A. N. Smith, Co. E, " " 

Sergt. James Reisser, Co. E, " " " 



200 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Sergt. James B. Denham, Co. F, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 
1862 Died from its effects in 1865. 

Sergt. George W. AYilcox, Co. F, dangerousl)', Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Sergt. Xeal Cannon, Co. G, woimded, leg, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Sergt. Patrick Holland, Co. G, killed, Antietam, Sept. 1*7, 1862. 

Sergt. Edward Riley, Co. G, wounded, " " 

Sergt. John H. Byrne, Co. H, " " " 

Sergt. Tliomas Hodges, Co. H, wouiided, shoulder, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Sergt. Charles E. Hill, Co. I, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Sergt. John McGlinchy, Co. I, drowned at Hatteras, Nov. 1, 1861. 

Sergt. Miner, Co. F, killed, Plymouth, Sept. 2, 1862. 

Corp. Robert Cameron, Co. A, died of febris typhoides, Dec. 1, 1861. 

Corp. David Van Cott, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. lY, 1862, 
(died.) 

Corp. Daniel T. Van Duzer, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17,1862. 

Corp. James 0. Freesman, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. 

Corp. Jeremiah Voorhees, Co. A, wounded, leg, Camden, April 19, 
1862, (died.) 

Corp. Thomas Fisher, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Corp. George W. Farrell, Co. B, wounded in arm, Antietam, Sept 17, 
1862. 

Corp. Arthur Spooner, Co. B, wounded, thigb, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Corp. Martin" Myers, Co. C, wounded, shoulder, Camden, Api-il 10, 
1862. 

Corp. Joshua C. Fields, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Corp. Thomas Livingston, Co. C, " " " 

Corp. Charles Currie, Co. C, " " " 

Corp. Elsden B. Stephens, Co. C, " " " 

Corp. Lucius Center, Co. C, died of typhoid fever, June 4, 1862. 

Corp. Theodore Hyde, Co. D, wounded, thigh, Antietam, Sept. 17," 
1862. 

Corp. Frank Purcell, Co. D, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Corp. Samuel P. Lawrence, Co. C, killed, " " 

Corp. James Judge, Co. E, " " " 

Corp, Owen A. Flood, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862, 
(died.) 



THEIK BATTLES AND MARCHES. 201 

Corp. Richard Bloxliune, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, Sept. IV, 1862, 
(died.) 

Corp. Michael Griesman, Co. E, wounded, ankle, Antietam, Sept. 17, 
1862, (died.) 

Corp. John N. Fink, Co. F, wounded, Camden, April 19, and Antie- 
tam, Sept. lY, 1862. 

Corp. John L. Hughes, Co. F, wounded, knee, Camden, April 19, 
1862'. 

Corp. Otten Van Grieff, Co. F, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Corp. Henry Newman, Co. H, -wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Corp. John R. Leslie, Co. H, " *' 

Corp. William Matthews, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Corp. McMahon, Co. H, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Corp. "William Patterson, Co. H, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862, 

Corp. John McKinlcy, Co. I, wounded, " " 

Corp. John 0. Adair, Co. I, killed, ' " 

Corp. Valentine Tronapfel, Co. G, wounded, leg, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Corp. Knapp, Co. G, died of typhoid fever, Oct. 23, 1861. 

Corp. William Saward, Co. I, killed at Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Corp. William J. Rogers, Co. B, wounded, hand, Antietam, Sept. 17, 
1862. 

Private Marcus May, Co. A, wounded, hand, Roanoke, Camden, 
foot amputated at Antietam. 

Private G. H. Swaine, Co. A, wounded, elbow, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 
1862. 

Private Jeremiah Donovan, Co. A, head, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 
. Private Severin Kress, Co. A, wounded, side, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Private Joseph Stage, Co. A, arm amputated, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 
Private Charles W. Waters, Co. A, body, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
John J. Stephens, Co. A, arm, " " 

Eavers, Co. A, died, perforation of intestines, Oct. 9, 1861. 
James Turner, Co. A, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
P. Stephens, Co. A, " u ii 

P. Hildebrand, Co. A, " " " 

William n..Banta, Co. A, " " " 



202 



THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 



Private Charles Bennett, Co. A, killed, Antietam, Sept. lY, 1862. 

James MeConnell, Co. A, wounded, Antietam, Sept. l7, 1862. 

Alexander Relyea, Co. A, " " " 

Jacob C. Brice, Co. A, ." " " 

Samuel J. Clark, Co. A, 

William H. Drake, Co. A, " " " 

Andrew B. Dobbs, Co. A, " " " 

John Gillay, Co. A, 

Severin Kress, Co. A, " " " 

J. Xyler, Co. A, 

William Stinson, •" " 

Daniel Leach, Co. A, '' " " 

Charles W. Lyon, Co. A, " " " 

James McManus, Co. A, " " " 

David L. Stage, Co. A, 

Frank Merganthiler, Co. A, " " " 

John Muskulus, Co. A, " 

Thomas Dickinson, Co. A, " " " 
Bugler Joseph Horn, Co. A, 

Private Jacob Ott, Co. A, died, typholdes, Hatteras, Nov. 12, 1861. 

Robert Topping, Co. A, Antietam, Sept. 11, 1862. 



Private William Gunther, Co. B, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
John A. Cortez, Co. B, 
John Shaffer, Co. B, 
Mathias Lintner, Co. B, 
Eugene Rassiga, Co. B, 
William S. Moser, Co. B, 
Napoleon B. Spicer, Co. B, 
Thomas Atkinson, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 1*7, 1862. 
Michael Good, Co. B, 
Richard Grant, Co. B, 
Spencer L. Harris, Co. B, 
James N. Hyatt, Co. B, 
M. O'Connor, Co. B, 
William Pfliffle, Co. B, 
Charles L. Roeder, Co. B, 
Michael Stanton, Co. B, 
Peter Wagner, Co. B, 
James Low, Co. B, 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 203 

Private John II. Roberts, Co. B, wounded, Antietam, Sept. IV, J862. 
F. Pfaffle, Co. B, 

Samuel Osborne, Co. B, " " • " 

John Smith, Co. B, " " " 

William H. Bailey, Co. B, " " " 

John B. Adair, Co. B, " " " 

Silliman Hubbell, Co. B, " " " 

Wm. V. H, Corteljou, Co. B, leg ainputated, Camden, April 

19, 1862. 
Eugene Rassiga, Co. B, wounded leg, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
Harold Hutchinson, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 

1862, (died.) 
John Hampson, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
Andrew Schoonraaker, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
Michael O'Conner, Co. B, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
Charles Miller, " " " " 

David Ilarring, " *' '< «' 

Byron G. Sill, Co. B, Antietam, Sept. IT, 1862. 
Thomas Palmer, Co. B, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 
Albert Thomas, Co. B, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 
Wm. Hines, Co. B, wounded, Xewports News, Aug., 1861. 
Thomas H. Roseberry, Co. B, died, intermittent fever, Dec. 

15, 1862. 

Private Philip Wekaser, Co. C, wounded, knee, Camden, April 19, 
1682. 
Joseph Beeker, Co. C, wounded, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
Paul Witz, Co. C, wounded, foot, Camden, April 19, 18G2. 
Wm. K. Watson, Co. C, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
Frank Prosser, Co C, killed, " " '• 

Emil Beese, Co. C, wounded, " «' " 

Wm. B. Aber, Co. C, wounded, " " '< 

John Brennan, Co. C, wounded, " " " 

Stephen P. Crawford, Co. C, Avounded, Antietam, " " 

Paul J. Clerihew, Co. C, wounded, " '< " 

Joseph Halliwell, Co. C, wounded, " " 

John H. Mecabe, Co. C, wounded, " " ^ 

Alex. McNab, Co. C, wounded, " " " 



204 



THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES I 



Private Daniel O'Brien, Co. C, wounded, Antietam, Sept. IV, 1862. 
Zack Seegie, Co. C, wounded, " " " 

Wm. Vogel, Co. C, wounded, " " " 

George Wilson, Co. C, wounded, " " " 

Alexander B. Cruden, Co. C, Avounded,'' " " 

James Gallaher, Co. C, died, febris remittens, Hatteras, Nor. 

4, 1861. 
George Morscbauser, Co. C, Antietam, Sept. lY, 1862. 



Private Henry Bessling, Co. D, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 18G2. 
William Bothers, Co. D, killed, " " 

Charles Michaels, Co. D, killed, " 
Otto Benthuysen, Co. D, killed, " *' 

James H. Brainard, Co. D, wounded," " 

Florence Crawley, Co. D, wounded, " " 

James Ewell, Co. D, wounded, " " 

Mathias Govern, Co. D, wounded, " " 

John Lawrence, Co. D, wounded, " " 

Marcus McCoy, Co. D, wounded, " " 

Louis Merge, Co. D, wounded, " " 

W^m. H. Searles, Co. D, wounded, " 
Joseph Matthews, Co. D, Avounded, " " 

Henry Westfall, Co. D, wounded, " 
George Wiebert, Co. D, wounded, " " 

Peter Cavanah, Co. D, wounded, " " 

Samuel Rotch, Co. D, wounded, " " 

J. Frank Hughson, Co. D, Avounded, " " 

John C. Cuitin, Co. D, Avrist amputated, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
John Roddy, Co. D, Avounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
John A. Van Scoy, Co. D, " 

Louis Longman, Co. D, " " " 

Charles Taylor, Co. D, died, typhoid pneumonia, Roanoke, 

May 15, 1862. 
Jacob Mentz, Co. D, wounded, mouth, Suffolk, April, 1862. 
John McKusker, Co, D, killed, Fredericksburgh, Dec. 13, 1862. 

Musician John Winn, Co. D, died of typhoid fever, Jan. 10, 1863. 

Private James H. Skinner, Co. E, Avounded, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 
James Juage, Co. E, " " " 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 



205 



Private "Wm. R, Yan Sickle, Co. E, wounded, (died from effect of 
wound,) Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 
Henry Millivctte, Co. E, wounded, (died from effect of wound,) 

Roanoke, Feb. 8, 1862. 
John R. Autin, Co. E, drowned at Hatteras, Nov. 1, 1861. 
Thomas M. Golding, Co. E, drowned at Hatteras, Nov. 1, 1861. 
John Dunn, Co. E, died, febris typhoides, Hatteras, Dec. 22, 

1861. 
Hugh Byrne, Co. E, wounded, arm amputated, Camden, 

April 19, 1862. 
Henry Sweetman, Co. E, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
Crookstan, Co. E, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
Philip Blazer, Co. E, killed, Antietam, Sept. lY, 1862. 
Robert P. Hassan, Co. E, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
Nicholas Jochun, Co. E, 
Augustus Leindhardt, Co. E, 
Jabez C. F. Lockward, Co. E, 
Bernard McDermott, Co. E, 
James Mclntee, Co. E 
John A. Smith, Co E, 

John J. Bower, Co. E, wounded, Antietam, " 

Benj. Campbell, Co. E, " » « 

Patrick Coen, Co, E, " « " 

John B. Gandolph, Co. E, " " " 

John Hess, Co. E, " " " 

James Hyer, Co. E, " " " 

John Knubell, Co. E, " « " 

Paul McLaughlin, Co. E, " " " 

Charles Sawyer, Co. E, " " " 

Henry Sweetman, Co. E, " " " 

Andrew Volk, Co. E, " " " 

Frank Hart, Co. E, " " " 

James Withers, Co. E, " " " 

Patrick Cannon, Co. E, " " " 

Bugler John S. Lange, Co. E, " " 

Private Adam Dillman, Co. E, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862.. 
Thomas T. Kelly, Co. E, " '' 

James Cloments, Co. E, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 
Nicholas Farrell, Go. E, 
10 



206 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Private Hermon Shepherd, Co. F, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

John Byrd, Co. F, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Louis Coulman, Co. F, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

George Cummings, Co. F, wounded, abdomen, Camden, April 
19, 1862. 

Henry Hartenfals, Co. F, both thumbs amputated, Camden, 
April 19, 1862. 

John J. Kelly, Co. F, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Yallade, Co. F, wounded, leg and thigh, Camden, April 19, 
1862. 

Henry Wise, Co. F, wounded, hand, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Wm. Dickson, Co. F, died, typhoid fever, Hatteras, Jan. 3, 
1862. 

Wm. H. Van Houten, Co. F, died, perforation intestine, Hat- 
teras, Jan. 3, 1862. 

Private Edward Drum, Co. G, both hands, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
Garrit Allison, Co. G, arm, " " " 

Hugh McElroy, Co. G, " • " " 

Wm. Fields, Co. G, wounded, arm, " " " 

Wm. White, Co. G, " " " 

Campbell, Co. G, died, diphtheria, Oct. 16, 1861. 
Peter Fisher, Co. G, wounded, arm, Suffolk, April, 1863. 
James Conway, Co. G, killed, Antietara, Sept. lY, 1862. 
Allen W.Negus, Co. G, 

Jacob Hopper, Co. G, •" " " 

Brainard Hubbard, Co. G, " " " 

George A. Delavegue, Co. G, " " " " 

John Devlin, Co. G, 

Charles Coulman, Co. G, wounded", Antietam, " " 

W, Williams, Co. G, " " " " 

Charles O'Donnell, Co. G, " 
Thomas W. Connolly, Co. G, " 
Andrew Lehring, Co. G, " " 

Gilbert Berthoff, Co. G, 
Michael Brady, Co. G, 
Philip Crock, Co. G, 

Aaron Van Namec, Co. G, " " " " 

Patrick Cotter, Co. G, 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 207 

Private Herman Stevrart, Co. G, wounded, Antictam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

James Orr, Co. G, " " " " 

Daniel Patrick, Co. G, " " " " 

John Kenedy, Co. G, " " ■ " " 

Alfred Thompson, Co. G, " 

David L. Thompson, Co. G, " " " " 

Michael Heartling, Co. G, " " " " 

Henry McQuade, Co. G, " <' " " 

Emila J. Coleman, Co. G, " " " " 

James Early, Co. G, wounded, Roanoko, Feb. 8, 18G2. 
Neal Cannon, Co. G, " " " 

Drummer Samuel J. Yan Ness, Co. H, died, Newports News, Aug. 9, 

1862. 
Private JohnN. Whalers, Co. H, died, Newports News, Aug. 12, 1862. 
Solomon Rose, Co. H, " " " Aug. 3, " 

John O'Connell, Co. H, died, Maryland, Sept. 27, 1862. 
Thomas Burke, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
^ George B. Carter, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 

18G2. 
Alex. Denny, Co. H, wounded, arm, Camden, April 19, 1882. 
John A. Eisley, Co. H, head and side, " " " 

Patrick Preston, Co. H, wounded, thigh, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
William Burns, Co. H, right arm amputated, Cj^mden, April 

19, 1862. 
Patrick Nash, Co. H, wounded, knee, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
Henry J. Nolan, Co. H, wounded, face, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
William D. Cavanaugh, Co. H, killed, Camden, April 19, 

1862. 
George Mayne, Co. H, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. 
Patrick Daly, Co. H, " " " " 

Christian Busam, Co. H, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 18C2. 
John Byrd, Co. H, " " 

Frank Donahoe, Co. H, " " *' " 

David Fleming, Co. H, " " 

David Johnson, Co. H, " " " " 



208 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES: 

Private William H. Stevenson, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 18G2. 

John Crossin, Co. H, wounded, " " " 

John Johnson, Co. H " " " " 

Isaac Kehn, Co. H, " 

Francis Knauth, Co. H, " 

James McGiimes, Co. H, " " 

John Owens, Co. H, " " " " 

John Cornell, Co. H, " " " " 

William Reese, Co. H, " " " " 

John Wallace, Co. H, " " " " 

Thomas Pearson, Co. 11, " " " " 

Samuel Snyder, Co. H, " " " " 

John Twaddle, Co. H, " " " " 

Private James Warren, Co. I, drowned in Narrows, June 5, 1861. 

John Bennett, Co. I, died from impacted feces, perforation 
intestine, Newports News, July 25, 1861. 

Charles W. Haltzman, Co. I, died of gunshot wound in head, 
August 3 1861. 

Hugh McClosky, Co. I, wounded, head and right tibia, Suf- 
folk, April, 1863. 

William Cockefier, Co. I, wounded, shoulder, Camden, April 
19, 1862. 

Charles E. Johnson, Co. I, wounded, wrist, Camden, April 
19, 1862. 

John McKinley, Co. I, wounded, head, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

Prank Hyckler, Co. I, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

William Saward, Co. I, killed, Camden, April 19, 1862. 

James Murphy, Co. I, killed, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

Levi Collins, Co. I, t," 

William Shaw, Co. I, " 

Edward Dennis, Co. I, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

John D. BHss, Co. I, 

Charles F. Johnson, Co. I, " " " " 

Edward H. Kenan, Co. I, " " " . " 

James Shultz, Co. I, " " " " 

Hamilton H. Thain, Co. I, " " " " 

William Smith, Co. I, " " " " 

Lewis A. Piatt, Co. I, " " " " 

Patrick Feeley, Co. I, " " '' " 



THEIR BATTLES AND MARCHES. 209 

Private Richard Scanlon, Co. K, wounded, slioulder, Roanoke, Feb. 

8, 1862, (died.) 
Glaucy WheeleF, Co. K, wounded, leg, Roanoke, Feb. 8, 

1862. 
Howard Fleming, Co. K, wounded, Antietam, Sept 17, 1862. 
James Hogan, Co. K, wounded, Antietam, Sept. 17, 1862. 

In addition to those above there are many names of wounded which, 
we regret to say, it is impossible for us to record with this work. The 
Avhole list complete numbers over four hundred in the aggregate, many 
being wounded two or three times. 

%>hi of it^illed, '^oiintlc^j an4 Beceasod einoc the tSwo 

Captain William G. Barnett, of Company B, again entered the ser- 
vice a short time after the regiment was mustered out. He was an ac- 
complished soldier and a thorough tactician. He held a command in 
the Seventeenth New- York Volunteers, which accompanied General 
Sherman in his grand march from Atlanta to the sea, and up to Wash- 
ington. The Captain met his death at Averysboro, N. C, by receiving 
a ball in the head. He is among the few who have passed through the 
war and finally closed it with his life's blood. His body was subse- 
quently brought home, and interred with appropriate honors by the 
Hawkins Zouave Association. 

First Lieutenant Flemming, of Company I, Ninth New-York Volun- 
teers, a First Lieutenant Sixteenth New- York Cavalry, was surprised 
and brutally murdered by guerrillas near Fairfax Court- House, Va. 

Edward K. Wightman, of Company B, Ninth New- York Volunteers, 
while serving out the balance of his term in the Third New- York Vol- 
unteer Infantry, was killed at the storming of Fort Fisher, in which 
action he bore so honorable a part that all who knew him speak 
proudly of him. Jle tvas cm excellent soldier and gentleman. 

James Owens, of Company E, Ninth New- York Volunteers, reenlisted, 
and was killed at the attack on Petersburgh, under General Grant. He 
was a gallant and intrepid soldier, and was determined never to return 
home so long as a rebel flag floated over his country. 



210 THE HAWKINS ZOUAVES. 

Frank Katjth, of Company H, Ninth New- York Volunteers, died on 
the fifth of May, 1864. 

Jacob Windall, of Company K, Ninth New- York Volunteers, re- 
enlisted, and was captured by the enemy. He was confined for many 
months in Andersonville, where, from want of food, exposure, and ill- 
treatment, he was reduced to a skeleton. Upon being exchanged he 
was conveyed to his home ; but the most delicate nourishment and the 
kindest care of his relatives failed to restore him to his proper physical 
condition, which was forever impaired, and he died in few days. 

Sergeant James B. Denham, who received a wound at the battle of 
Camden, N. C, died from its effects, after prolonged suffering, on Wed- 
nesday, October 18th, 1865. His funeral was attended by a large con- 
course of relatives and friends, and the members of the Hawkins 
Zouave Association, Hawkins Zouave Militia Regiment, Neptune En- 
gine Company No. 7, and the Brooklyn, E. D., Fire Department gen- 
erally. 

First Lieutenant Robert W. Armstrong, reenlisting, was commissioned 
as Lieutenant of a colored regiment, and killed at the explosion of the 
mine before Petersburgh. 

Andrew J. Wright, of Company K, reenlisted in the Fourth New- 
York Heavy Artillery, and was killed in the Shenandoah Valley. 

Those who reenlisted became so'scattered that it is impossible to pro- 
cure information of the probable disaster among them. 



APPEJSTDIX 



NOTE A 

In the month of July, 1860, Messrs. Hawkins, Barnctt, Pari- 
sen, Hammill, Graham, Childs, and others, first conceived the 
idea of organizing a company of Zouaves, which was to be the 
foundation of a future regiment, to be known as the New-York 
Zouaves. A number of preliminary meetings were held, and 
the scheme met with favor and was readily taken hold of The 
Committee on Rooms reported in favor of engaging a drill-room 
at the Mercer House ; and on motion the report was accepted, 
and the room engaged. A Printing Committee, consisting of 
Messrs. Hammill, Barclay, and Clancy, was appointed. Messrs. 
Hawkins, Baldwin, and Cohen were chosen a standing Finance 
Committee. Messrs. Hawkins, Parisen, and Cohen were ap- 
pointed a Committee on Military Instruction and Lectures, with 
power to increase their number to seven. On motion it was re- 
solved that the corps should meet at the Mercer House the next 
week for business and drill. They determined to proceed imme- 
diately to hard work, and to use every endeavor to rival in effect- 
iveness the celebrated French Zouaves. And certainly they de- 
serve much praise for imparting this resolute spirit to the mem- 
bers of the Hawkins Zouaves, who have more than fulfilled its 
every letter. They subsequently removed their headquarters to 
the more convenient location corner of Thompson and Fourth 
streets, where the spacious Washington Parade-Ground was at 
their disposal, and at which place they were when the Hawkins 
Zouaves volunteered for two years. 



212 APPENDIX. 



NOTE B. 



The esteem for the Colonel manifested by the men while in the 
service was not of a volatile character ; for, since being mustered 
out, transactions have passed between the two parties which 
have riveted them in mutual affection. No higher evidence of 
this can be necessary than the fact, that when the organization 
of the Zouave Militia Regiment first commenced, not a man 
would sign the roll unless it was a part of the compact that Col- 
onel Hawkins should command the regiment. And at a subse- 
quent period it was suspicioned by a number of the men that 
an illegitimate use of his name was made as an inducement to 
promote the scheme, and in consequence enlistments almost 
wholly ceased, until all heard the announcement from his own 
lips that the suspicion was unfounded, and that he was proud of 
the position to which they had a second time called him — for 
members of regiments usually get enough of their Colonel the 
first time. It must be understood that he was bound in destiny 
with them, and he would not leave the regiment, even if he was 
obliged to shoulder his musket and go in the rear rank. 

NOTE C. 

Sergeant-Major Peacock was undoubtedly one of the vilest of 
traitors. He enlisted from motives purely mercenary, and there 
was not a particle of patriotism in him. Upon one occasion he 
told us that he was fighting for the Federal Government simply 
because on our side he could get a few dollars per month more 
than the Confederates would give. His words (and they were 
all of* the same kind) were not fully explained until long after 
his capture by the rebels in the instance named. "VYhen Ser- 
geant-Major Dusenberry, who superseded him, was captured at 
Antietam, with others of the regiment, he was taken to Rich- 
mond, and confined in the Libby Prison, where he found the 
traitorous Peacock under rebel colors as officer of the guard, 
having been promoted to a captaincy for his zeal in their service. 
But he found it policy to treat the Zouaves with unusual kind- 
ness, and to some he even offered money for the purchase of 



APPENDIX. 213 

necessaries. They were obliged to bear his insulting appearance, 
and wait until the change of events should bring punishment. 
He was afterward seen in New- York, where he came with a piti- 
ful story ; and he was advised to avoid the society of any of the 
Zouaves ; for should he chance to meet them, transactions would 
probably take place which might render him a subject for hospi- 
tal treatment. He took passage in the first steamer for Europe. 

NOTE D. 

When in conversation with Colonel Hawkins, General Phelps 
would speak of the Zouaves as a credit to any commander ; and 
almost always after praising them highly, he would conclude by 
saying : "Yes, yes, a very fine regiment, Colonel — a very fine 
regiment ; but they want considerable drilling and harnessing." 
The following is an extract of a letter from the General to Fran- 
cis A. Silva, at one time Captain of a company in the "Ninth" : 

Brattleboro, Vermont, May 30, 1865. 

I am much obliged to you for sending me an obituary notice of Cap- 
tain Barnett. It accords well with the character of the regiment to 
remember the services of its members as an honor to the sincerity of 
their patriotism ; for very few regiments were of a more decided, na- 
tional, and patriotic character. The boys were animated by a spirit as 
wide as the limits of the country, and as deep as its best interests. 
Their proclivities toward order, method, system, and regularity, did 
honor to their intelligence as well as to their patriotism. I remember 
them always with particular pleasure. 

Very respectfully yours, J. W. Phelps. 

This long-standing love of the General's is sufficient to dissi- 
pate any seeming singularity which may be attributed to him in 
regretting to part with these two companies as he did. 



214 APPENDIX. 



NOTE E. 

The consequence of drilling and working the regiment so 
hard was, that one half of them were soon on the sick-list. 
Assistant-Surgeon White was in charge of the dispensary at 
Camp Winfield, where the greater portion of the regiment was 
at that time, and the men always give him great praise for at- 
tending to his duties in such a prompt and gentleman-like man- 
ner. He always exhibited a kindliness seldom met with, more 
particularly when theu' bodily ailments called for his sympa- 
thies. 

NOTE F. 

If reports can at all bo credited, it would appear that the pub- 
lic have been greatly deceived in regard to the first charge of the 
war at the battle of Roanoke, made by the Hawkins Zouaves. 
The Ninth New-Jersey say that there was not an enemy in the 
battery when the Zouaves made their appearance upon the bat- 
tle-field. This onust be erroneous, for the Ninth New-Jersey 
were still discharging their .muskets when the -"Ninth" went 
ahead of them and charged up the " caiiseway." Were tliey 
firing at nothing ? 

The Fifty-first New- York claim the honor of capturing the bat- 
tery. The Zouaves were a little ahead in winning the glory, but 
have since been very backward in claiming it. The true circum- 
stances are, that hoth regiments made a charge, the Fifty-first 
upon the enemy's right, and the "Ninth" in the centre. The 
colors of the Zouaves were in the centre of the regiment when 
they charged by the flank, where they should be ; but the colors 
of the Fifty-first were at the head of their column, where they 
should not be ; and from the fact alone that tlieir colors were in 
the battery ^rs^, they claim what justly belongs to the Zouaves ; 

for BEFORE THEIR FLAG HAD REACHED THE ENEMY's WORKS, AT 
LEAST TWO HUNDRED OF THE " NiNTH " HAD POURED IN THE BAT- 
TERY, AND DRIVEN THE REBELS FROM THEIR GUNS. Undoubtedly 

the Fifty-first had planted their flag upon the parapet in advance 
of the colors of the Zouaves ; but do flags take batteries or 

DO MEN? 



APPEiN"DIX. 215 

The ^' Ninth " thinks there was glory enough won on that 
occasion for all, and they wish for no share that legally belongs 
to others ; but the part the Fifty-first have taken since then to 
belittle the merits of the Zouaves, is widely disparaging to the 
noble career they have won throughout the war. 

NOTE G. 

Surgeon Humphreys was one of the most valuable officers in 
the regiment, and upon all occasions during battle he attended 
to the wounded while it was going on, and in his anxiety to re- 
lieve others of suffering, seemed wholly unconscious of all dan- 
ger to himself. The regiment was proud of him, and boasted 
that he could do as much " work" (in the Hne of surgical opera- 
tions) in ten minutes as any other two could in twenty. He is 
spoken deservedly of in Lieut.-Colonel Kimball's report of the 
battle : "Acting Brigade-Surgeon Humphreys, of this regiment, 
IS entitled to great praise on this occasion, having been constant- 
ly in attendance upon the wounded, until after their arrival at 
Roanoke Island, and upward of twenty-eight hours without 
sleep." The wounded always considered themselves unfor- 
tunate when they chanced to be placed under the care of an- 
other. 

NOTE H. 

The following notice of the death of this gallant officer finds 
a response of deep sympathy in the heart of every man in the 
regiment. That he became so soon attached to them was partly 
because he was impartial to all, uniform in his gentlemanly con- 
duct, and possessed of a system of order. " Although the field 
was won, its price was dear to the regiment, and particularly so 
in the loss of its Adjutant, that accomphshed soldier and gentle- 
man, Charles A. Gadsden. He was but lately appointed, and 
had been on duty with us only for the short space of five days; 
yet in that time he had endeared himself to all with whom he 
came in contact. He died gallantly at the head of the regiment, 
and in the honorable performance of the duties of his profession. 
All regret his death, and will always kindly and proudly remem- 
ber his connection with us." His body was carefully embalmed 



216 APPENDIX. 

and sent home under a proper escort, and the funeral solemni- 
ties were observed in his native city, where his dearest relatives 
and friends could lay him down gently to his rest." 

NOTE I. 

" I can not close this report without bearing testimony to the 
good conduct, on the battle-field and in the hospital, of the 
Kev. T. W. Conway. He not only remained after the army had 
left, and aided the wounded in the hospital, and buried and per- 
formed the funeral service over all the dead in the different regi- 
ments ; .but he then collected, took command of, and brought 
safely into camp, with great risk to himself, detachments from 
the different regiments of above forty strong, who had fallen out 
by the roadside from exhaustion." — KirribalVs Re])ort. 

Since then Mr. Conway has passed through a checkered and 
eventful history in connection with his benevolent labors among 
the freedmen ; and we deeply regret that we have not space to 
give one or two interesting incidents of that history. 

NOTE K. 

May 30, 1862. — " This morning the side-wheel steamer Port 
Royal arrived here from Roanoke Island, n^ia the Currituck and 
Dismal Swamp Canal. Colonel Hawkins and twenty of his gal- 
lant Zouaves are the first to open connection between Generals 
Wool and Burnside. By this movement we can dispense with 
all the seaward transportation, and forward supplies, etc., in a 
safe and rapid manner to our troops in that vicinity. I learn 
from the Zouaves that their passage was unobstructed ; but pre- 
vious to their starting they were some time removing obstacles 
which had been put down by the rebels some time since. They 
will return by the same route/Letc. — Fortress Monroe Corre- 
spondence, y 9 8 9 ''*a| 
^ NOTE L. 

Among the most conspicuous in liberal hospitality was the 
family of Nathaniel Hallcr, of East Patrick street. On behalf of 
many members of the regiment, who have been the subjects of 
their kindness, we make this thankful acknowledgment. 















-^^ 






% * '. V ^ <.0-^ 






-A V 



V 



A 












:^ 









rP^ X 






^^; 



'<;^. 



0' 



^.^'^ 



'^'■> ** / ^J^y-!^^ s^ . f 



s*^ -^^ 






^ JC* 






^^^ c 






K 



.^^ 



c^ <^, 



^ ,- V 









•xV 



"^..^ 



\' 






<?' 



'^. .c-^^ 



;^ 









^% 





^^^ * «A^ 








""^ '^^. v-^"^ 



^^ 


"'■ .0- 


^ 


N. 


tj ^ 


C^' 


f 




■ -ft 

^ - 




^^' ""^. 




c^ 




'^ 


A"" 





*^ 



. .^^ 






"^y- v^ 



y^^^^co^^^ 






^^.^ ''^» ,^*^^\^'^ 



^y^ 



v- 



A^- -"<!'. 



C5 0^ 



s^ 



S -r. 



'<^.S^ 







x^' 


\ 




L ■* 


\ 




''a 




>^'' 


G 


^° 


°<. 








c 


>^ 





.^^ 






•^:^ -'^^ ^r 



^^ .^ 



c^ 



-is- 






^' V*. ,. 



^^ ''■^^ '. 



.^^.^ c " " '• 



-^ V 



-6' 



^^" ^^^ 






^>..^^^' 



^" .^ 



;^ 



'<- A' 






^-P 



J- V^ 



